Aycliffe Radio in association with Seconds Out Boxing Academy say no to knives and yes to the training and specialised first aid kits designed to treat and help save the lives of people injured as a result of knife crime. The office of National Statistics shows knife and bladed incidents are on the increase and there is a real need to raise awareness of the danger of carrying knives and the long term catastrophic effects on people’s lives.
Presenter Phill Hawkins childhood experiences of knife crime scarred him for life and he feels strongly, “raising awareness works but, when faced with the harsh realities of knife crime, it needs to be supported by practical, professional advice, guidance and training to help save lives. This is why the posters and the training provided with the specialist bleed kits are a vital part of this ‘say no to knives’ initiative.”
When Aycliffe Mayor, Cllr Ken Robson was invited to take part, he didn’t hesitate to offer his support and backing “this is a superb initiative, not only will these packs and the training help save lives from knife crime, the training could also prove its worth for road traffic accidents too. I fully endorse this project.” Glenn Gowling MBE, a careers adviser and veteran with thirty eight years military service, discussed the positive steps necessary to achieve the best outcome for the individual, and the different barriers to overcome, knock down or work around to get people on the right path and their life back on track.
Paul Eddy and Ronnie O’Brien from Seconds Out Boxing Academy use their vast experience and knowledge, gained from Paul working with the youth offending service, to educate and help people find a positive outlet in life that helps instill confidence, self worth and self discipline.
Both are passionate about people taking personal responsibility but also working to bring the community together. Community based problems often require a community based solution that comes from thinking about everyone’s safety and quality of life.
When faced with a growing problem, prevention will always be preferable to wishing in hindsight we had done something sooner. If, by saying no to knives, we can save a single life and the suffering knife crime often brings to their loved ones, we will consider it a job well done.
Phill Hawkins