A dedicated operation to combat knife crime has begun in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The week-long initiative, dubbed Operation Sceptre, is being led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and commenced on Monday, November 11.

This operation aims to make communities safer by directly tackling knife-related crimes.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary will work closely with its Violence Reduction Unit, alongside local authorities, public health bodies, charities, and youth workers.

The goal is not only to reduce knife-related incidents, but also to prevent young people from becoming involved in knife crime.

As part of the increased police activity during Operation Sceptre, officers will be carrying out extra visible patrols in known hotspot areas, engaging with potential knife carriers.

The force will also be working with schools, colleges, and youth groups to educate youngsters about the dangers of knife crime.

Conducting weapons sweeps, staffing knife arches, and promoting the 'Challenge 25 ID' approach are additional measures being taken.

Acting inspector, Christian Lavin, tactical lead for knife crime for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, said: "In Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, a huge effort is being made to work closely with local and national partners to educate, prevent and reduce knife crime in our communities.

"Through a multifaceted approach, Op Sceptre will include operations across our two counties such as educational talks, community engagement activities and enforcement tactics, warrants, knife surrender bins, weapon sweeps, knife arches, and hotspot patrols.

“Our approach has also been strengthened through new legislation changes that have been made, which reduces the availability of certain knives and weapons and increases policing powers to seize these to protect the public and make communities safer.

Knife-related crime has fallen by 8.6 per cent over the past four years, and tackling knife crime remains a year-round priority for the force.

The public can also contribute to the fight against knife crime by using the permanent knife surrender bins located at various stations.

A full list of these locations can be found on the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website.

For support, individuals can contact the charity Barnardos or visit their website.