Club backs knife crime awareness campaign

The event was in support of Safer BCP partnership month of action raising awareness of knife crime.

Following the tragic death of Cameron Hamilton, who was killed in Bournemouth town centre in August 2023, his family and agencies across the BCP area have come together to ensure Changes Are Made.

The day was opened by Cameron’s grandmother Tracey Jose who spoke about the devastating impact that losing a loved one to knife crime has had on her and her family.

Tracy shared: “As Cameron Hamilton’s grandmother, I would ask everyone to think twice before they make a decision which could have serious consequences for them and potentially devastate other families like ours.

“Please don’t carry a knife – if there had not been a knife present on August 5th, Cam would still be alive and here with us today and that’s what young people need to realise.”

Throughout the day, the young people received workshops from various guests including community group Vita Nova, who offer meaningful engagement through theatre and expressive arts.

Other speakers included The Town Street Pastors, Dorset Police Safer Schools Communities Team and BCP Youth workers.

BCP Safeguarding Education advisors Jo France and Sue Wickings spoke on the event: “It enabled the young people to take an active part in discussions to recognise BCP as a safe area, but at the same time giving them the skills and understanding of what and who is out there to help and support them.”

To round off the afternoon, players Michael Dacosta Gonzalez and Gemma McGuinness took part in a question-and-answer session with the pupils, answering on their careers, personal experiences and the importance of supporting one another.

Meredith Hack, Head of Safeguarding at AFC Bournemouth, said: “We are delighted to have welcomed the pupils to Vitality Stadium to support such an important campaign.”

More information can be found here: saferbcp.co.uk/knife-crime-awareness