Knife surrender bins have been installed in three locations across Southampton.

The city centre, Shirley, and Thornhill now all have bins, funded through a Home Office grant to police forces experiencing high rates of violent crime.

Since being installed in June, 60 knives have already been dropped off, Hampshire police said.

The bins are part of wider violence reduction strategy by police and councils who are using community engagement and early intervention initiatives to tackle crime.

READ MORE: Arrest as woman sexually assaulted on Bluestar bus in Totton

The Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), local police and Southampton City Council hope the bins will serve as a reminder to the community that their efforts to tackle the issue is a permanent, unwavering commitment to keeping people safe. 

PCC Donna Jones said: “Knife crime is not just an issue for policing, a wide range of organisations are responsible for curbing the violence that infects our communities.

“Research shows violence spreads like a disease, which is why all members of the partnership are involved in tackling the root causes and stopping it dead in its tracks.

 “The surrender bins will confront the other end of the spectrum. Those who have already decided to carry a knife are at much greater risk of being injured themselves even though their decision to carry a knife is for self-protection.

 “I’m very pleased 60 knives have already been disposed of. It’s clear the visible presence of these bins has caused people to think twice and surrender a weapon before it was too late.”

Cllr Christie Lambert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Safer City at Southampton City Council, added: “We are committed to making Southampton a safer place for everyone.

“Knife surrender bins offer an anonymous and judgement-free way to dispose of dangerous knives and will undoubtedly help to reduce the risk of knife crime in some of our most deprived areas.

 “Our children deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods. Knife surrender bins offer a chance to get dangerous weapons off the streets, creating a safer environment for our young people. 

“Together, we can create a safer city for our families and communities.”