A three-day weapons prevention training programme has been delivered by New Forest District Council (NFDC).

The training, aimed at education, youth service, and community safety professionals, took place from April 29 to May 1.

It was attended by 17 professionals.

The sessions aimed to equip attendees with the skills to support young people in making positive choices.

Topics covered included weapon possession law, factors contributing to weapon ownership, and the impact of knife crime on individuals, families, and communities.

Local charity Changes Are Made (CAM), which raises awareness about the dangers of knife possession, also presented at the training.

More information about the council's efforts to combat crime and antisocial behaviour can be found at safer.newforest.gov.uk.

Councillor Dan Poole, portfolio holder for community, safety, and wellbeing, said: "Reducing incidents of serious violence, including possession of weapons, is a key priority for our Safer New Forest partnership.

"Weapons-related crime remains comparatively low in the district, and we’re committed to reducing this further.

"We have delivered training across schools, youth groups, and at post-court interventions over the years, and we’re ensuring ongoing resilience and shared learning so that we can continue to support and protect our communities."