It is illegal to possess, sell or hire out, import or lend/give to someone a wide variety of specific knives and weapons in the UK. The penalty for carrying a knife or weapon illegally could be up to 4 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both .
Violence inflicts trauma on victims, their families, and their community. Bin the knife, save a life.
Further information on banned knives and weapons can be found on the government’s website: Selling, buying and carrying knives and weapons – GOV.UK
What is a knife bin?
A knife bin is a secure bin where people can safely dispose of unwanted knives and blades. Anything placed in the bin cannot be removed and will be collected and destroyed safely.
Amnesty bins are located in Cleveland’s four main police stations:
- Middlesbrough
- Stockton
- Redcar
- Hartlepool
You won’t be in trouble for placing a bladed weapon in one of these bins, the aim is to get knives off our streets and keep people safe.
Bin the knife, Save a life consultation
The Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence is working with key partners and stakeholders to explore the introduction of a pilot knife amnesty bin scheme within the community.
On 29th July, Cleveland Police’s Operation Artemis will take place in Stockton. As part of this community-focused initiative, partners will undertake consultation and engagement activities to gather public views on the potential placement of knife amnesty bins within Stockton town centre.
Why are knife bins being considered?
Knife bins may:
- Help remove unwanted knives from homes and communities
- Provide a safe way to dispose of knives
- Support work to reduce violence and knife crime
- Help make our communities safer
Why are we asking for your views?
We want to know what local people think about knife bins, including:
- Whether you support them
- Where they could be located
- Any concerns you may have
- Any other ideas to improve community safety
Have Your Say
If you’re a Stockton based resident please fill out our survey on Knife Crime. Your feedback will help inform future decisions.
The survey takes only a few minutes to complete.
Bin the knife, Save a life survey