When Violence Strikes: Standing Together Against Knife Crime

The shocking stabbings aboard a train in Cambridgeshire have reminded us that violence can cut across everyday spaces: on our commutes, in public areas and within communities that should feel safe. While this incident is tragic and unique, the wider issue is not - knife crime remains one of the most persistent threats to public safety in the UK, demanding awareness, prevention, and shared responsibility.

Communities across the UK continue to feel the devastating impact of violent incidents. While the details of each event differ, the shared message remains the same: violence changes lives forever and preventing it begins with awareness, early action, and community connection.

At imabi, our mission has always been to help people stay safe, connected, and informed, especially in moments when fear and uncertainty take hold.

Following the tragic Cambridgeshire train stabbings, imabi Founder & CEO Mark Balaam joined BBC News to share his expert view and discuss rising concerns around public safety, knife crime, and how technology can help people feel safer when travelling.

Understanding the Reality of Knife Crime

Knife crime in England and Wales continues to rise, reflecting deep societal and community challenges.

• Each year, tens of thousands of offences involving a sharp instrument are recorded across England and Wales

• Young people under 25 continue to be disproportionately affected -both as victims and as those drawn into carrying weapons

• In many cases, knives are carried out of fear, not intent, with individuals believing it will keep them safe - yet the opposite is true

• Research consistently shows that carrying a knife increases the likelihood of being injured or harmed

These statistics aren’t just numbers; they represent real people - sons, daughters, friends, and neighbours. Knife violence can happen anywhere, from busy city centres to quiet neighbourhoods and its impact extends far beyond those directly involved.

Spotting the Signs of Rising Tension or Violence

Awareness and early intervention can save lives. While not all warning signs indicate imminent danger, certain behaviours or situations can signal rising tension or risk:

• Someone concealing or handling a sharp object suspiciously

• Heightened aggression or agitation in confined public areas (e.g. trains, stations, bus stops)

• Groups displaying controlling or intimidating behaviour towards others

• Individuals appearing distressed, withdrawn, or fearful near others

• Unusual objects or weapons left hidden in public areas

If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and alert authorities discreetly. Silence allows escalation - awareness prevents it.

Warning signs may include:

• Raised voices, insults, or confrontational body language

• Someone acting aggressively or visibly distressed

• Arguments escalating in tone or drawing a crowd

• The presence of alcohol, frustration, or group tension increasing risk

What you can do:

• Trust your instincts: if something feels off, step away

• Avoid confrontation: don’t attempt to film or intervene directly

• Move to safety: head to well-lit, populated areas

• Report what you see: contact staff, security, or police or use the Report feature within imabi Travel Guardian app

Early awareness saves lives. Violence can often be stopped before it starts when we act quickly and calmly.

When Seconds Matter: How to Respond in Emergencies

If you ever find yourself near an incident:

1. Move to safety - create distance between yourself and the threat.

2. Call 999 immediately and give clear details about the location and what’s happening

3. If you can’t speak, dial 999 and press 55 when prompted (the Silent Solution for police)

4. Use emergency systems: in transport settings, press alarm buttons or notify staff

5. Do not confront": focus on escaping or alerting others, not engagement

6. Keep calm and reassure others if it’s safe to do so: offer reassurance, call for medical help, and flag trained responders and/or administer basic first aid until help arrives (if trained to do so)

After the event, accessing trauma and wellbeing support is crucial - for victims, witnesses, and responders alike.

How Communities Can Make a Difference

Preventing knife crime isn’t just about enforcement - it’s about empowerment.

• Start conversations with young people about fear, respect, and safety

• Support local projects that offer positive alternatives - sports, arts, and mentoring.

• Report concerns early, whether it’s suspicious behaviour or someone at risk

• Encourage empathy and inclusion - fear and isolation often sit at the root of violence

Every small action helps build a stronger, safer community.

How imabi Supports Public and Community Safety

At imabi, our goal is to ensure people can travel, work, and live with confidence.

• The imabi Travel Guardian app allows users to:

✅ Share their journeys with trusted contacts for reassurance
✅ Report safety concerns or incidents quickly and anonymously
✅ Access real-time local alerts and educational guides
✅ Find links to national support services and wellbeing resources

• imabi Connect supports councils, BIDs, and community groups in promoting safety awareness and connecting residents to verified information

• imabi Inspire provides educational resources that help young people understand the dangers of carrying weapons and where to seek help

By bridging digital innovation with real-world action, imabi enables safer, more connected, and informed communities.

Incidents like the train stabbings in Cambridgeshire tear at the sense of everyday normality but they also reinforce what we already know: that safety is built, not assumed. Whether you’re a commuter, a student, a transit worker or a community member, your awareness, voice and action make a difference. At imabi, we stand for the connected community, where every journey is an opportunity for safety, confidence and trust.

For detailed insights and education resources, visit:

🔗 Fighting Knife Crime London – a community-led initiative supporting families, promoting prevention, and providing vital resources for those affected.

🔗 The Ben Kinsella Trust - a leading UK charity working to tackle knife crime through education and youth engagement.