Tackling Knife Crime Across West Yorkshire: A Step Towards Safer Communities

Last week saw a powerful and proactive crackdown on knife crime across West Yorkshire, with 180 arrests made and dozens of weapons seized during a week-long campaign under the national Sceptre initiative. The operation was part of a wider Knife Crime Week of Action, bringing together law enforcement, community groups, and regional leaders to keep our streets safer and our young people protected.

At Bespoke Care and Support Services, based in central Huddersfield, we understand the devastating impact that knife crime can have on families and communities. That’s why we stand alongside our partners across Kirklees and beyond in celebrating efforts that promote public safety and protect vulnerable people.

Action on the Ground

Officers from every policing district across West Yorkshire took part in the operation, conducting 55 knife sweeps in parks, green spaces, and urban areas, recovering 30 bladed weapons – including a sword seized during a warrant execution in Batley.

High-visibility patrols were carried out in 66 identified knife crime hotspots, with Knife Search Poles deployed in key transport hubs, such as bus stations. In Bradford, additional engagement events and arrest operations added to the overall impact.

Educating to Prevent

Importantly, the initiative wasn’t just about enforcement. Police visited 43 schools, as well as popular youth spaces including boxing clubs, to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying knives. In Calderdale, Police Cadets visited 25 stores to test compliance with knife sale restrictions – only one retailer failed to follow the law by not checking ID.

This balanced approach – targeting both the causes and the consequences of knife crime – reflects the strong commitment of our local leaders.

United Against Violence

The campaign was supported by the West Yorkshire Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP), led by Mayor Tracy Brabin. Chief Superintendent Lee Berry of the VRP praised the twin-track strategy, saying:

“Proactive policing operations in which officers take positive action against criminals are hugely important, but so, of course, is our longer-term work to dissuade young people from carrying knives in the first place."

Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, echoed this sentiment:

“Tackling serious violence sits at the heart of the Mayor’s Police and Crime Plan… This dedicated awareness week offers just a window into the ongoing partnership work taking place, day in, day out, to keep our communities safe, just and inclusive.”

Our Role in Safe Communities

As a provider of Award Winning Care in private care in Huddersfield, our team at Bespoke Care knows that community safety and wellbeing are inseparable. The people we support, including older adults and those with complex needs, deserve to feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.

We continue to work closely with local services, safeguarding boards, and families to deliver responsive and personal care that puts dignity and security at the centre. Campaigns like Sceptre are vital in making sure we can do just that.