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‘Postcode’ -  knife crime and gang culture

A group of young people from Southwark have produced a hard-hitting film about knife crime and gang culture as part of a project run by Southwark's Youth Offending Team (YOT).

Postcode is an authentic, passionate drama showing that a young person’s fate is often tied up with their postcode. The film takes a hard look at crime, anti-social-behaviour, relationships, gangs and the devastating consequences of carrying a knife.

More than 20 young people were involved in all aspects of making the film, including scripting, producing, acting and editing. Most are linked to the Southwark council's YOT, and some have knife crime convictions themselves.

Southwark‘s YOT commissioned the film to help young people better understand issues that may affect their lives daily. The project helped them develop problem-solving techniques in a safe environment, and challenge each other’s views and attitudes, while increasing their confidence and self esteem.

Southwark Councillor Paul Kyriacou, executive member for community safety, said: “Southwark has taken a lead in tackling knife crime by developing a wide range of innovative programmes to prevent the devastating impact of crime on our friends, families and communities.

“Legislation only goes so far in addressing these problems - what we need is for the whole community to take ownership of the issue. That’s why we’re working closely with young people, listening to their views, and asking them to help us find solutions.

“Some young people mistakenly think that carrying a weapon protects them. This film clearly shows that this is a fallacy - by carrying a knife young people are more likely to become a victim themselves.

To find out more and see a three minute trailer on their website.