Using the reach and power of football, the clubs and Crimestoppers are delivering a strong and united message: Enough is Enough. Too many young lives have been lost to stabbings across Merseyside, too many families left devastated, and too many people carry knives in our streets.

Throughout the year, each club delivers projects that educate and support young people to make positive choices and avoid carrying weapons. These include innovative initiatives such as Everton in the Community’s virtual reality headset project, Liverpool Foundation’s Onside programme, and the joint ‘4 Clubs, 1 Goal’ campaign – uniting football to make Merseyside safer for everyone.

This week, a number of activities are taking place across Merseyside as part of wider efforts to tackle knife crime and violence. Football on Merseyside is playing its part by encouraging people to speak up safely and anonymously. If you know someone who carries a knife, commits violent offences, or involves young people in County Lines activity, contact the charity Crimestoppers or its youth service Fearless.org. You will stay 100% anonymous- always.

Gary Murray, North West regional Manager at the charity Crimestoppers said:

“When I meet parents who have tragically lost a child to knife crime, it’s heartbreaking to hear their stories and see the devastating impact on their families”

“No one should have to go through that pain and loss.

“Tragically, some young people believe carrying a knife will protect them, but in reality, it puts them in even greater danger.

“If you’re worried about someone carrying a knife, please contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously online or by phone. Your information could save a life.”

Gemma Smith, LFC Foundation’s Head of Programmes said, “We stand with Crimestoppers, Everton in the Community, Tranmere Rovers in the Community, and Marine in the Community to put an end to knife crime across Merseyside.”

“By joining forces, all four Merseyside clubs have the opportunity to make a powerful statement and drive real change.”

“Our Onside programme empowers young people to build essential skills for education and employability, offering pathways to obtain The Prince’s Trust Achieve Award, Sports Leader Level 1, or Dance Leader Level 1.”