'Actions have Consequences' workshops educate youngsters on knife crime dangers

The National Offender Management Service event, Actions Have Consequences, was delivered to youngsters by Her Majesty's Prison (HMP) officer, Paul McGovern MBE.

Prison Officer Paul McGovern MBE, from HMP Manchester, works within the Prison Community Team which engages with children in local schools to break the cycle of children being peer pressured into local crime gangs and subsequently being imprisoned when they are adults.

The aim of the Actions Have Consequences programme is to break down barriers between local children, their teachers, local neighbourhood policing teams, school-based officers and the youth offending team.

Paul was joined by Sergeant Paul Heap of GMP’s Operation Venture team and Lauren Roberts, Prevention Education Instructor from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service on Monday 26 June 2023 at Manchester Communication Academy in Harpurhey.

The sessions focused on knife crime prevention, reporting incidents to the police, the dangers of drugs, lawful reasons for stop and search and problems around carrying a knife.

Paul McGovern MBE said: “The whole point of these sessions is to engage with young people and educate them going forward. The vast majority found it an interesting and enjoyable experience, which is what it’s all about.

“We get our messages across by using interactive scenarios, engaging with teachers and students by using real-life examples.

“Thanks to the school and staff for being so welcoming and allowing us to showcase our engagement programme.”

Operation Venture was set up in December 2022 as GMP’s answer to the threat of serious violence and knife crime.

We all have a part to play in fighting, preventing and reducing knife crime. If you know or suspect someone is carrying a knife, please report it immediately - before it is too late.

If you’re worried a young person is at risk or is involved in violence, help and support is available.

Talk to someone you trust. Report concerns online at www.gmp.police.uk , or call 101. Give information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting www.fearless.org.

Crimestoppers also have a dedicated website which enables 11 – 17 year olds to pass on information anonymously – this can be accessed through Fearless.org

In an emergency, always dial 999.