Knife crime is an epidemic that continues to devastate families, take young lives, and tear communities apart. The statistics are alarming over 15,000 knife related offences were recorded in London last year alone, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. Across England and Wales, knife crime has nearly doubled in the past decade, with teenagers aged 13-19 now twice as likely to be fatally stabbed compared to ten years ago.

These numbers are more than just figures they represent real lives lost, futures stolen, and families left grieving. It is time for change.

Who’s Next? is more than just a campaign; it is a movement driven by urgency and a commitment to change. Created by the AP Foundation, it brings together ex-offenders, educators, legal professionals, youth mentors, and community leaders to tackle the root causes of knife crime.

Our approach is simple but effective: we provide education, mentorship, and opportunities to young people at risk of falling into a life of violence. By addressing the factors that drive youth towards crime—social exclusion, lack of opportunities, and a failing justice system we aim to break the cycle before another young life is lost.

Why We Must Act Now

The reality is clear: our current systems are not doing enough to prevent knife crime. The justice system is overwhelmed, struggling to rehabilitate young offenders effectively. Schools, under pressure from funding cuts, often lack the resources to intervene early. And in many communities, a culture of fear and silence allows violence to thrive.

We cannot afford to wait until another tragedy makes the headlines. Who’s Next? seeks to create long-term change through real, grassroots action.

Through this approach, we aim to provide young people with the tools they need to make positive choices before they become another statistic.