Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
GENERAL
1. What is CutoutCrime?
CutoutCrime is a UK-based initiative that provides information, guidance, and support to help prevent knife crime. We offer resources for parents, young people, victims, and communities, plus 1:1 advice sessions for those who need personalised support.
2. Who is behind CutoutCrime?
CutoutCrime is led by Olatunji, who has lived experience of being involved in knife crime in the past. Having turned his life around, he now works to help others avoid the same path and to support those affected by it.
3. Is this an emergency service?
No. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. You can also find crisis contact numbers on our [Get Help Now] page.
4. Can I get help from you if I’m under 18?
Yes, but if you’re under 18 we can only speak to you with a parent, carer, or responsible adult present. This is for your safety and ours.
5. Do you work with schools and community groups?
Yes. We can deliver talks, workshops, and awareness sessions for schools, youth clubs, and other community groups. Use our [Contact] page to enquire.
6. Is the advice confidential?
We treat everything you share with us with respect and privacy. However, if we believe someone is at risk of serious harm, we may need to share information with the appropriate services to keep people safe.
7. Do you have DBS checks or safeguarding accreditation?
Not yet. We are a new organisation and currently building our safeguarding framework. Until this is in place, we do not work directly with under-18s without a parent/carer present.
8. Is there a cost for 1:1 support?
Our initial 20-minute guidance call is free. Ongoing sessions may have a cost; we will always agree on this with you in advance.
9. How do I book a 1:1 session?
Go to our [1:1 Support] page, fill out the booking form, and we’ll contact you to arrange a suitable time. We offer sessions online or in safe, public locations.
10. What if I think my child is getting involved in knife crime?
Visit our [For Parents] page for signs to look out for and steps you can take. You can also book a 1:1 session to get personalised advice.
11. Do you work with victims of knife crime?
Yes. We provide practical advice, emotional support, signposting, and information on reporting options and aftercare. See our [For Victims & Survivors] page.
12. How do you fund this work?
We are currently self-funded and exploring partnerships and donations to expand our services. If you’d like to help, see our [Get Involved] page.
13. Do you collect my personal data?
We collect only the information we need to respond to you. For full details, see our [Privacy Policy].
14. Can I volunteer or work with you?
We welcome interest from people who share our mission. Opportunities will be listed on our [Get Involved] page as we grow.
FAQ – For Young People
1. What if I have a knife for protection?
Carrying a knife makes you more likely to get hurt, not safer. If you feel unsafe, there are better ways to protect yourself, talk to someone you trust or see our [Get Help Now] page for options.
2. Will you tell my parents if I speak to you?
If you’re under 18, we need a parent, carer, or responsible adult to be part of the conversation. If you’re over 18, we won’t tell your parents unless you ask us to, but if you or someone else is at serious risk of harm, we may need to involve the right services to keep you safe.
3. What if I’m already involved in knife crime?
You can still get help. We don’t judge, we’ve been there. We’ll help you look at your options and find a safer path.
4. Can I talk to you anonymously?
Yes, you can use a first name or nickname when you contact us. Just remember that if you want ongoing help, it’s easier if we can stay in touch.
5. Do you speak to the police?
Not unless we have to. If there’s an immediate risk of serious harm, we may have to contact the police or other services to keep people safe.
6. What if my friends find out I’m talking to you?
7. Can you help me leave a gang?
Yes. We can connect you with safe support, help you plan your exit, and link you to training, education, or community programmes.
8. Do you only help people in trouble with knives?
No. We help anyone who feels pressured into crime, is worried about violence, or wants to make safer choices.
9. Can you help with other problems like drugs or money issues?
Yes, we can’t solve everything ourselves, but we can connect you to trusted organisations that can help.
10. What if I just want someone to listen?
That’s fine. You don’t have to have all the answers, just starting the conversation is a good step.