Disappointment as shops fail Challenge 25 policy on knife sales
Police cadets were able to buy bladed products without being challenged
At least seven shops in Wiltshire have failed test purchases during a week of Police action against knife crime.
It's raising concerns for Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson, who says it's vital society works together to prevent harm.
He said: "The test purchasing results are concerning and show clearly that more must be done to ensure retailers are playing their part in keeping knives out of the hands of young people. Businesses have a responsibility to challenge and refuse sales where appropriate, and we will continue working with them to raise standards and protect our communities.”
Police cadets were able to buy knives in four of six shops visited in Trowbridge without being challenged, while two of three stores tested in Devizes also failed. A number of businesses in Tidworth and Amesbury were also subject to a test purchase, with only one failing the test.
It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to buy a knife, blade or bladed product in the UK. To create a bit of a safety buffer, retailers are asked to challenge customers who look like they are 25 or younger, to reduce the risk of accidental sales.
A sale is not permitted if a customer is unable to produce ID when challenged.
Lianna Bradshaw, Anti Social Behaviour Hotspot Manager, said she's disappointed that retailers failed to uphold the policy.
She said: “It shows that more needs to be done to ensure retailers are aware of the important role they play in helping us tackle knife crime and ensuring knives sold unlawfully do not end up in the hands of young people.
“Test purchasing helps us work with local businesses to strengthen compliance, raise awareness and keep people safe and we will continue to work with business owners throughout the year. I’d like to thank our young cadets for their assistance in these operations.”