Meet Cleveland’s newest squad who are steering children away from knife crime and serious violence.
Inspired by the creativity of Key Stage 2 pupils, the team of superheroes bring an important message around knife crime prevention to young audiences.
The project, developed by the Cleveland Unit for the Reduction of Violence (CURV) invited children aged 9-11 to design their own superhero characters aimed at promoting safe choices, building confidence and resisting peer pressure to carry knives.
The initiative placed pupils at the heart of the creative process, encouraging them to think critically about real-life challenges and how positive role models can influence decision-making.
Hundreds of imaginative entries were submitted by local pupils and 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.
It was brought to life by Silver Lining Animation and will now be shared across schools and community platforms, serving 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.
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