Young people in Lambeth tell us that although most young people feel safe when they go out (75%), just over half worry about crime and gangs in Lambeth.

When asked in surveys as many as one in four young people in London aged 15 – 16 claim to carry knives. Most young people who carry knives say that they think this will make them safer on the streets.

But does carrying a knife, a gun or being part of a gang make young people safer? Or does it make their lives even more dangerous?

Here are some sites which other young people have helped to develop.   

http://www.newdestinytrust.co.uk/

http://www.are-you-ok.org.uk/

http://www.gameover4knives.com/

How much do you know about guns, knives and the law?

Q1:  How old do you have to be to be able to buy a knife in a shop legally?

a) 18
b) 9
c) 25

Correct answer a)

Q 2:  Which of the following items could also turn into a weapon if used in the wrong way, and could result in a charge of “possession of an offensive weapon” against the person who has used it to harm someone?

a) Screw driver
b) Pen
c) Hockey Stick

Correct answer – all of them.

Q 3: What is the maximum penalty for illegally possessing a knife, or bladed article in a public place?

a) 6 months imprisonment or a £5000 fine
b) 2 weeks community service
c) 4 years imprisonment

Correct Answer: c).

Q 4: What is the maximum sentence for carrying a knife onto school premises?

a) A one hour’s school detention
b) Up to six month’s imprisonment
c) Up to four year’s imprisonment

Correct answer:  c)

Q 5: What is the maximum sentence for carrying a real fire arm or a replica fire arm in public (even if it belongs to someone else)?

a) 6 months imprisonment for 16 – 17 year olds
b) 1 years imprisonment for 16 - 17 year olds
c) 3 years imprisonment for 16 – 17 year olds and 5 years for adults

Correct answer: c)