Teenagers in Swindon have developed a new artificial intelligence chatbot designed to help young people avoid knife crime. The project, created through the DiversITy-talent programme, provides at-risk youth with a safe, anonymous way to ask questions, reflect on their decisions, and find support.
The tool is funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire through the Serious Violence Duty. It works by connecting users directly to local organisations, mentoring schemes, and youth services, helping to remove barriers like fear, stigma, or uncertainty that might otherwise stop young people from seeking help.
Kirsa Clothier, from the Wiltshire Police Early Intervention team, praised the students for their work. She highlighted the importance of offering confidential advice to assist young people in making safer choices. Philip Wilkinson, the Police and Crime Commissioner, noted that tackling serious violence is a top priority, adding that the latest figures suggest collective efforts across the community are beginning to make a positive impact.
Data shows that Wiltshire recorded a 4.5% reduction in weapon offences in the year ending June 2025, with incidents falling from 420 to 401. This initiative is part of a broader push to address youth violence, which has included an anti-knife crime summit held in Swindon in September 2025. That event was organised by Owen’s World, a community group established following the death of 18-year-old Owen Dunn in 2022.
Beyond the new chatbot, schools across Wiltshire and Swindon are also participating in the Blunt Truth programme, which provides education on the dangers associated with knife crime.
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