Abstract

<p>Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, youth engagement in serious violence, particularly knife crime, has become a growing concern. The pandemic has not only directly affected adolescents but has also left a profound impact on their social, emotional, and mental well-being. Such trauma during a critical developmental stage can have long-lasting consequences. Adolescents have had to adapt to these challenges by altering their social routines. Historically, adolescents have faced various stressors, including social, family, economic, and health-related issues, alongside disruptions to their daily routines and support systems. To address these complex challenges, this study delves into the Tackling Knives Action Programme (TKAP) initiated by the UK Home Office in 2007. TKAP, which was later extended to include 13- to 24-year-olds, aimed to reduce the incidence of severe injuries and fatalities among teenagers due to knife crime. It operated in 14 areas across the country and was part of the broader Youth Crime Action Plan, which sought to enhance public confidence in community safety. This research explores the impact of TKAP on youth engagement in knife crime and delves into the effectiveness of the program in achieving its objectives. It also assesses the broader social implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth behaviors and violence. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies to address youth violence and support adolescents during challenging times.</p>