Fears over children falling victim to knife crime in Coventry

Adults in Coventry fear children in the city will become victims of knife crime and carry knives because they feel vulnerable.

With youngsters in the midst of the summer holidays, children's charity Barnardo's surveyed adults in Coventry to gain their views on knife crime and how it affects children.

YouGov carried out a poll of more than 100 adults in Coventry - on behalf of Barnardo's - with more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of those surveyed being worried children aged 10-18 may become victims of knife crime.

Similarly, 66 per cent of respondents worry that children feel unsafe in the city because of knife crime, and 60 per cent said children carry knives for protection because they feel vulnerable.

Worries over knife crime in Coventry certainly have a solid foundation with 29 reported stabbings so far in 2019 - with nine of the victims being teenagers.

There have been many debates over what can be done to stop kids being pulled in to a life of crime with ideas including harsher sentences in the courts and more activities to keep youngsters occupied.

And 57 per cent of those responding to the YouGov survey agreed that more safe places and activities for children such as youth clubs, sports clubs and community centres would make their area safer for children from knife crime.

Half think more investment in neighbourhoods to combat poverty, inequality and unemployment will help, while just 32 per cent believe tougher sentences for those who commit crime will make the area safer.

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What is the best way to tackle knife crime in Coventry?

Barnardo’s regional director Emma Bowman said: “Children should be having fun and relaxing in the school summer holidays, but the majority of people surveyed are concerned children will become the victims of knife crime.

“This polling shows most adults realise that knife crime is a complex issue. The answer does not lie in tougher sentences but in making sure our children and young people are safe.

“We want the Government to ensure children can thrive in their own communities; provide safe environments and activities for children, alongside more investment in neighbourhoods and services to combat poverty.

“We need to urgently work together as a society to get a grip on this national crisis.

“Government needs to work with children’s services, educationalists, charities, social workers, youth workers, the criminal justice system and local communities to tackle the real causes of knife crime.”

YouGov surveyed adults in ten cities for Barnardo’s - Coventry, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newport, Nottingham and Sheffield.