In 2021 as part of the No Knives, Better Lives programme, YouthLink Scotland explored what it is like to be a boy or young man in Scotland today. The purpose of the research was to develop and deepen our understanding of how young people feel about masculinity and growing up. Lots of young people took […]
Young people
We're here to help you stay safe from fear and violence, and give you the support you need to make positive life choices.
Are you carrying, have carried or thinking about carrying a knife?
If you carry a knife you’re more likely to use it, and face the consequences
If the situation is urgent, call 999
For non-emergencies you can call 101, and anonymously report crimes online via Crimestoppers and Fearless.
Report anonymously to FearlessMore help and supportDo you know someone who carries a knife or is thinking about it?
Understand how to safely intervene in a situation when someone you know is carrying a knife
Nae Danger, the young person's bystander guide
Report anonymously with Fearless
If the situation is urgent, call 999
For non-emergencies you can call 101, and anonymously report crimes online via Crimestoppers and Fearless.
Report anonymously to FearlessMore help and supportWant to know more about knife crime in Scotland and how it affects young people like you?
If the situation is urgent, call 999
For non-emergencies you can call 101, and anonymously report crimes online via Crimestoppers and Fearless.
Report anonymously to FearlessMore help and supportLearn more
Resources to help you understand more about how to keep yourself and others safe, make good choices and navigate difficult and potentially violent situations.
Sam's story
As part of our youth violence campaign in Scotland, we spoke to Lynn Burns. Lynn’s son Sam was murdered in Ayrshire in 2013 and died from a single stab wound to his chest.
Listen now
Amanda’s story
Amanda was 18 when she was charged and sentenced to 22 months in Cornton Vale Prison for possession of a knife.
Read more
Lisa's story
Influenced by drink and drugs, Lisa spiralled into a life of violence and knife crime. As a result she lost care of her son and spent time in prison.
John's story
John began carrying a knife at 16 after an assault. He ended up in and out of young offenders institutes and was seriously injured in fights.
Learn more about knife crime?
National Hate Crime Awareness Week - Celebrating Difference
For Hate Crime Awareness Week this year the Scottish Alliance Against Prejudice and Hate Crime is running a social media campaign called ‘Prejudice Leads 2 Hate’
Nae Danger video game launched across Scotland
The new Nae Danger Game has been designed for schools and youth organisations and aims to empower young people to stand up, speak out and get help if a friend or someone they know is carrying a knife.