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For Parents & Carers

Worried About Your Child?

If you think your child might be getting involved with knives, gangs, or risky behaviour, you are not alone. Many parents see changes in their children that leave them unsure what to do next.
This page gives you clear signs to look for, ways to talk without pushing them away, and where to get help.

Spot the Signs

Changes in behaviour don’t always mean knife crime, but they are worth paying attention to. Look out for:

  • Unexplained money, clothes, or possessions

  • Becoming secretive or withdrawn

  • New friends you don’t know

  • Skipping school or staying out late

  • Mood swings or sudden anger

  • Injuries they can’t explain

How to Talk So They’ll Listen

  • Pick your moment. Choose a calm time, not in the middle of conflict.

  • Stay calm. Even if you hear things you don’t like, try not to react with anger.

  • Listen more than you speak. Show you value their point of view.

  • Use “I” not “you.” For example, “I worry when you don’t come home” instead of “You never come home.”

  • Be curious, not accusing. Ask open questions instead of making statements.

Practical Steps You Can Take

  • Know who their friends are. Show interest without interrogating.

  • Agree boundaries. Talk about curfews, check-ins, and safe travel.

  • Check their phone settings. Make sure location and safety settings are set up.

  • Work with the school. Teachers and safeguarding staff can help spot patterns.

  • Plan safe travel routes. Encourage them to use buses or routes where they’re less isolated.

If They’re Already Involved

Finding out your child is carrying a knife or at risk doesn’t mean you’ve failed as a parent. It means you need support.

  • Stay calm and keep communication open.

  • Focus on safety first.

  • Contact trusted services for guidance.

  • Consider booking a 1:1 Support Call with CutoutCrime.

Where to Get Help

  • Childline (under 19) – 0800 1111

  • NSPCC – 0808 800 5000

  • Victim Support – 0808 1689 111

  • Crimestoppers – 0800 555 111 (anonymous)

  • Local safeguarding team (via your council or school)

How CutoutCrime Can Help

  • Personal guidance. We can listen and offer realistic advice.

  • Experience you can trust. Led by someone who has lived through the risks.

  • Support for you. Sometimes parents need just as much help as the young person.

[Book a 1:1 Support Call]

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