28 JUNE 2008 – 27 SEPTEMBER 2023

Over a year ago Elianne’s death made news globally. A young Black girl from Croydon, Surrey, was fatally stabbed. Elianne defended her friend from her ex when she was stabbed. Last month I walked past the spot where she fell,. I saw the flowers that her friends and family left on the bench on Wellesley Road, Croydon. I was amazed that already 1 year had passed since her death. I can’t imagine how her parents feel, or her friends. However, I did think to myself has anything changed; because in death, life still goes on. The family has to be catered for, work has to continue, bills have to be paid. All continues without your love one. But Elianne’s family and friends continue to love her and miss her, and delve into their memories. This helps them continue in their love for life, no matter how hard it is.

THE OFFICE FOR NATIONAL STATISTICS

Released the figures for knife crime including articles with a blade for 2024

Offences involving knives or sharp instruments (excluding Greater Manchester Police) increased by 4% (to 50,510 offences). Compared with YE March 2023 (48,409 offences); this was 3% lower than YE March 2020 (51,982 offences). So knife crime continues to rise.

RAESOLUTIONS ROLE

To provide an education on prevention of crime not just for young people but for all people. Raesolutions aim to show some of the obstacles in life that give rise to the ideas of crime. How to manage these obstacles and stay free of them. Our prisons are too full and in July 2024 the Government decided to release prisoners early. They used to be released at the 50% stage of their sentence. Our prisons are not fit for purpose as there are too many men in prison. Black and mixed race men being over-represented. The purpose of rehabilitation for many prisoners are not being met, as overcrowding prevents the relevant courses and treatments from being conducted. These courses and treatment’s aim is to equip prisoners with the knowledge and skills to avoid behaviour that led to them being in prison in the first place.

ONE SIZE DON’T FIT ALL

Raesolutions acknowledge that there is no one solution to prevent crime or behaviours that lead to the breakdown of relationships. However, Raesolutions is willing to take unconventional steps to help reduce them. In hope that lives like Elianne’s have not been in vain, so that our young people can look forward to a peaceful, fulfilling life.

Take care of yourself until next time,

Akilah