National Online Safety: What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Youth Violence

This Wake up Wednesday guide explores the issue of youth violence – what causes it, where and when it often occurs, and how adults can help keep young people safe and informed.
Youth violence impacts 1 in 4 children and young people in the UK, yet many parents and educators feel unsure how to respond. This guide breaks down the causes, risks and warning signs of violent behaviour in young people, helping adults feel more confident in supporting those at risk.
Drawing on expert insights from the Ben Kinsella Trust, it explores why some young people may carry weapons, how violence is influenced by online content, and what time and locations pose the greatest risk. It also highlights the importance of early intervention, emotional support, and honest conversations.
Sources:
- Children, Violence and Vulnerability 2024 | Youth Endowment Fund
- The Ben Kinsella Trust | Knife Crime Prevention Charity
- Helping-our-children-stay-safe-a-guide-to-knife-crime-and-safety-for-parent-and-carers.pdf
- YEF_KeyFactsAboutViolence_6.pdf
- Temporal and geographic patterns of stab injuries in young people: a retrospective cohort study fro…
- The-Ben-Kinsella-Trust-Keeping-Young-People-Safe-Snapshot-Report-2024.pdf
- Ben Kinsella Trust Exhibition Report
- Problem solving violent crime: A guide for analysts
- Fearless: Anonymous Reporting for a Safer Community | Crimestoppers
- Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers