Safer knife replacement scheme rolls out across Wigan Borough

A move towards rounded-tip knives is underway across Wigan Borough to enhance community safety.

Through its Community Safety Partnership, Wigan Council is among the first local authority to take part in the safer knife replacement scheme, a key part of the Let's Be Blunt campaign - set up by Leanne Lucas, a survivor of the Southport attack.

Nearly 20 council and partner buildings have already made the switch to the knives which feature a rounded-ended tip, as well as many residential homes taking up the pledge and making the swap.

Leanne Lucas said: "Replacing pointed tip knives is a simple but important step in reducing risk and preventing harm.

"Rounded tips make a real difference; the pointed tip creates the pressure point and increases the potential for serious injury.

"We also must recognise that harm is often about access and opportunity. When everyday items are easily available, they can be used in moments of crisis, impulse or vulnerability, so making small changes like this helps reduce that immediate risk.

"Making the switch creates opportunities for conversations about safety in homes, workplaces, schools and community settings."

The council's Family Hubs, council-owned children's homes, and Wigan Youth Zone, have also swapped to the safer knives, pledging their support to the Let's Be Blunt campaign to reduce knife harm across the borough.

Councillor Dane Anderton, cabinet portfolio holder for children and families, said: "I'm pleased we have been able to make such a positive step in removing an everyday risk that is hiding in plain sight.

"The exchanges at all of our Family Hubs and children's homes means that we can significantly reduce the risk of knife harm, while educating families and young people on the risks of knives, and why using these knives is better for our overall safety."

Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet portfolio holder for police, crime and civil contingencies, said exchanging pointed blades for safer alternatives will hopefully inspire more widespread adoption and reduce the risk of knife harm nationwide.

He said: "Figures show that the most used weapon in serious violence is a kitchen knife, an item which is found in almost every home and workplace, which is why these exchanges are extremely important in leading the way to preventing knife related harm.

"The safe exchanges are just one part of a wider range of initiatives being delivered across Wigan Borough to prevent violence and keep our communities safe.

"We all have a part to play in keeping ourselves and others safe, and I want to thank our partners and Leanne Lucas in the progress we have made on these exchanges."

Households in Wigan who have taken part in the exchange have said the knives "give peace of mind" and are a "good idea to educate children."

Mike Hulme, facilities manager, at Wigan Youth Zone, said: "We are pleased to support this initiative with Wigan Council and the Let's Be Blunt campaign.

"Having these rounded-ended knives in our kitchens means we can cook in a safer way, while also educating our young people on why these alternatives matter.

"The safety of our young people is our utmost priority, and taking part in the safer knife exchange is a positive step alongside other partners across the borough to reduce serious knife harm and help build a safer community."

Leanne added: "This is one part of a bigger picture. Changing knife design alone won't stop all knife crime - but if it can prevent even one incident, then it's a step we can't afford to ignore."

Find out more about the Wigan Borough Community Safety Partnership, who are actioning the safe exchanges across the borough.

Posted on Monday 18th May 2026