A sculpture raising awareness of the impact of knife crime arrives in Sandwell this October.
The Knife Angel sculpture will be located in Oldbury Civic Square near to Sandwell Council House in Oldbury town centre.
The arrival of the Knife Angel, which is a powerful symbol of the impact of knife crime, will be marked at an official opening event in the Civic Square on Wednesday 2 October from 4pm to 6pm.
Standing 27-feet tall and weighing 3.5 tons, it is comprised of 100,000 blunted knives received from 43 police forces across the UK. It took two years to create and has toured many UK towns and cities since November 2018.
Standing as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of knife crime, the Knife Angel also symbolises the resilience of communities working together to combat violence and foster lasting change.
Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, said: “Knife-related crime is a concern across the UK, and it is important that we do all we can here in Sandwell to make sure people choose life, not knife.
“Most people do not carry knives; most young people do not carry knives. But we need anyone who does, or is tempted to carry a knife, to turn their back on a choice that could cost their or another person’s life.
“This thought-provoking Knife Angel is a reminder of the real and tragic consequences of knife crime and will hopefully start conversations within families, among friends and in the community.
“This campaign seeks to engage every member of the Sandwell community – schools, families, businesses and local organisations – in a collective mission. We will honour those impacted by violence, educate the public, raise awareness of personal safety and take meaningful action to create a safer, more peaceful future.”
Sandwell Police commander, Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, said: "Knives can ruin lives and we're working with partners to keep our streets safe.
"We're doing this through both enforcement and education and the Knife Angel sends out a powerful message which should resonate across communities.
"We're committed to doing all we can to prevent the devastating consequences which can be caused by carrying a weapon. Actions in the heat of the moment can lead to the tragic loss of life and someone else ruining their own life too.”
The Knife Angel sculpture has been brought to the borough by Sandwell Council and the Safer Sandwell Partnership working together with British Ironwork Centre, West Midlands Police and the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP).
Follow the Knife Angel story in Sandwell on our webpage and on social media with the #KnifeAngelSandwell hashtag.
The Knife Angel
The Knife Angel originates from the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry and was crafted by sculptor and artist, Alfie Bradley. The Knife Angel has been on tour around the UK and has become recognised as a National Monument Against Violence and Aggression. Host towns and cities have actively engaged in the National Anti-Violence Champions campaign, with young people and children – to increase awareness and encourage them to reject violent and aggressive behaviour in its many forms.
Further information about the Knife Angel
About knife crime
Knife crime destroys lives and tears communities apart. We all have a part to play in tackling this issue. Parents, carers, teachers and professionals can look out for the signs that a young person may be carrying a knife.
Here are some signs to look out for:
- Changes in behaviour, such as becoming withdrawn or secretive.
- Spending more time away from home or with new friends.
- Having unexplained money or possessions.
- Being protective and secretive with their bag or clothing.
- Having cuts or bruises on their hands.
If you are concerned about a young person, talk to them about it. Let them know that you care and that you want to help before it’s too late – before they either get hurt or do something that they end up regretting. You can also contact your local police or a youth support organisation for advice and support.
About the Life or Knife campaign
Life or Knife is a campaign led by West Midlands Police.
It follows a number of stabbings in the West Midlands region where young people have lost their lives or been handed a life sentence for carrying a knife.
The campaign is not about telling young people what is right or wrong, but about showcasing the realities of knife crime, the significant impact it can have, and the importance of choices.
West Midlands Police is playing its part in tackling knife crime through operational activity aimed at reducing the number of knives on the streets and educational inputs in schools. However, the police cannot do it alone. Communities and parents play a vital role in tackling knife crime, and the Life or Knife website provides guidance and help to anyone who can support the campaign. There are weapon surrender bins across the West Midlands where you can safely dispose of a knife, blade or other weapon – in Sandwell, these are in Oldbury, Tipton and Cape Hill, Smethwick.