As we step into a new year, we want to take a moment to reflect, reset and look ahead. The past year has shown us just how powerful community action can be when people come together with a shared purpose. At Blades Down, our commitment remains clear. We are here to prevent harm, educate young people and empower communities with the skills and confidence to save lives.
This year is about building on what we have already achieved and pushing forward with even greater determination.
What’s Next for Blades Down?
The new year brings renewed energy and a clear focus on impact. We will continue to expand our youth engagement work, deliver educational workshops and support families and communities affected by violence and antisocial behaviour.
Our work will remain centred around prevention, early intervention and practical life skills. From youth clubs and outreach sessions to partnerships with schools and local organisations, our aim is to reach more young people than ever before and give them the tools they need to make safer choices.
Launching Our First Aid Saves Futures Campaign
One of our key priorities this year is the launch of our First Aid Saves Futures campaign.
We believe first aid education should be a basic life skill, not a privilege. Knowing how to respond in an emergency can be the difference between life and death, whether that emergency happens at school, at home or in a public space.
Through this campaign, we are calling for consistent, high quality first aid education for young people, alongside better access to training, resources and bleed control equipment. We want to ensure that young people feel confident, capable and prepared to act when it matters most.
First aid does not just save lives. It builds confidence, responsibility and a sense of community care. That is why this campaign sits at the heart of our work moving forward.
Continuing Our Community Work
Alongside the campaign, we will continue our Safe Knife Swap events, youth mentoring programmes and educational sessions focused on violence prevention, wellbeing and positive futures. Our partnerships with organisations such as Gloves Not Gangs will remain a vital part of our approach, offering young people alternatives, support and guidance.
Every conversation, every workshop and every trained young person brings us one step closer to safer communities.
Thank You for Standing With Us
None of this work is possible without the support of our community. To our volunteers, partners, supporters and every young person who engages with us, thank you. Your belief in our mission drives everything we do.
This year, we are more determined than ever to create real, lasting change. Together, we can save lives, shape futures and keep blades down.