Staffordshire Police have launched a new campaign in support of Op Sceptre, a national week of action against knife crime. 

As part of the Ditch the Blade campaign, officers from across Staffordshire will use this week as an opportunity to educate the public on the dangers of carrying a weapon. 

Staffordshire Police are also encouraging parents, guardians and the wider community to talk to young people in their lives about knives, so they can address any concerns that may make them feel like they need to carry. 

There are also amnesty bins located across the county for people to dispose of knives. 

Force knife crime lead, Chief Inspector David Barrow, said: "Knife crime has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities, and tackling it remains one of our top priorities. 

"Over the past year we've seen a nine per cent reduction in knife-related offences across Staffordshire, with nearly 4,000 knives voluntarily surrendered through our amnesty bins. 

Staffordshire Police have launched the Ditch the Blade campaign as part of a national week of action against knife crime (image via Staffordshire Police)

"This reflects both effective policing and the continued support of our communities in removing weapons from circulation. 

"We recognise that knife offences can be linked to harmful behaviours within relationships and that many victims and offenders are young people. 

"That's why our approach focuses not only on enforcement, but also on prevention, education and early intervention. 

"We're continuing to strengthen the way we investigate and manage knife crime through improved supervision, better evidence quality and close partnership working with health, education and community services. 

"Initiatives like the Knife Replacement Scheme and the Responsible Shopkeeper Scheme will help us prevent harm before it happens. 

"By working together, we can continue to drive knife crime down and make Staffordshire a safer place for everyone."  

In July, Staffordshire Police joined forces across the country in supporting a new Home Office compensation scheme for ninja swords ahead of a ban on the weapons from 1 July. 

Being in possession of a ninja sword could lead to a prison sentence of up to six months, potentially increasing to two years under the new measures. 

People can dispose of ninja swords and any other knives at amnesty bins across the county. 

To find your nearest bin, visit the Staffordshire Police website here.