On Thursday 1 December, the Knife Angel; a National Monument Against Violence and Aggression arrived at Stadium MK, it’s new home throughout December and into early January.
The Knife Angel is a 27ft sculpture, made from approximately 100,000 bladed weapons collected in knife amnesty bins during police operations across the country.
The city of Milton Keynes is working together this month to tackle all forms of violence.
CEO at MK Dons Sport and Education Trust, Maralyn Smith said: “MK Dons and MK Dons Sport & Education Trust are really pleased to be hosting the Knife Angel during December, to support the project with education and awareness raising around the issues of violence. We are committed to the reduction of violence in all forms and are keen to encourage discussion and education for the Milton Keynes committee and hope the activities have a real impact in reducing violence in our city.”
The month of action in Milton Keynes is a partnership between Thames Valley Police, the Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner, Milton Keynes City Council, MK Dons Sport and Education Trust (SET) and The Safety Centre Charity Hazard Alley.
Both MK Dons SET and Safety Centre Charity will look to provide workshops and engaging educational activities for schools and youth groups aged 12+.
MK Dons SET, will support by providing educational workshops providing opportunities for youth groups and students to become anti-violence ambassadors, becoming part of the legacy through social action. Something which MK Dons SET CEO, Maralyn Smith noted of the importance:
“MK Dons SET will be working with community organisations and schools to provide education and engagement workshops around the Knife Angel sculpture to encourage young people to become anti-violence ambassadors and spread the word about keeping safe."
The work of MK Dons SET and Safety Centre dispel the myths around knife crime and safety in Milton Keynes whilst educating primary children and young people on the risks of carrying knives and its potential consequences. Furthermore, Stadium MK, the site of the Knife Angel, will provide opportunities for groups to take part in workshops at Stadium MK across the month of December.
