Meet Cleveland’s newest squad who are steering children away from knife crime and serious violence.
The team of superheroes was inspired by the creativity of Key Stage 2 pupils. They bring an important message around knife crime prevention to young audiences.
Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV) developed the project.
CURV invited children, aged nine to11, to design their own superhero characters. Those characters aimed to promote safe choices, build confidence and resist peer pressure to carry knives.
The initiative placed pupils at the heart of the creative process. It encouraged them to think critically about real-life challenges and how positive role models can influence decision-making.
Pupils submitted hundreds of imaginative entries. Designs reflected thoughtful ideas around courage, responsibility and standing up against knife crime.
After careful consideration, Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey selected six characters who best captured the project’s message.
From heroes who use their voices to stand up for others, to those who rely on teamwork and quick thinking rather than violence, the superhero squad reflect the pupils’ powerful understanding of community and safety.
Silver Lining Animation brought the characters to life. The animation will now be shared across schools and community platforms. It will serve as both an educational resource and a celebration of young voices.
Pupils attended CURV’s Youth Safety Summit at the Riverside Stadium where they were able to watch the animation for the first time on a big screen. They were then given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the ground, from the changing rooms to a walk around the pitch.
Truly exceptional quality
Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said: “The quality of the entries we received was truly exceptional. We originally set out to choose one single superhero as the winner, but in the end, we narrowed it down to six fantastic finalists.
“Every submission showed creativity, passion and a genuine understanding of the importance of staying safe, making good choices and looking out for others.
“The anti-knife crime superhero squad stands as a powerful reminder that even the youngest voices can help influence a safer future for communities in Cleveland.”
Watch the full animation here: Anti knife crime animation