Knife bins in Brent

The knife amnesty bins provide a safe and anonymous way for people to dispose of knives, reducing the risk of them being used as a weapon or to cause harm.

Seven knife bins have been installed across Brent. This initiative is delivered in partnership with the Raheem Sterling Foundation and Word 4 Weapons. All bins will remain in place for three years, starting from March 2024.

A Ninja Amnesty Bin has also been installed as part of Brent's collaboration with the Home Office on the Ninja Sword Surrender Scheme, introduced under the Criminal Justice Act 1988. The change in legislation makes it illegal to possess, sell, import, or manufacture ninja swords from 1 August 2025, unless a specific legal defence applies.

Learn more about the knife bins and the support available to those at risk of committing or being affected by knife crime.

1. Wrap the knife

Place the knife in a sturdy container (e.g., cereal box). Seal it well with tape to prevent reopening.

2. Transport with care

Ensure the knife is not accessible while transporting. Carry it directly to the knife bin location.

3. Deposit securely

Place the wrapped knife into the designated knife bin.

Find your nearest amnesty Bin

Good to know

• Liability when stopped by Police
  It is illegal to carry a knife in public without good reason. Ensure the knife is wrapped and sealed to prevent liability. Simply stating you are taking it to a knife bin is not a defence.
  
  
• Police access to knife bins
  Police cannot access the bins without a warrant. Since 2007, no warrants have been issued to open these bins.
  
  
• Access to bins
  Only Word 4 Weapons can access the bins, which are tamper-proof and securely attached to concrete slabs.
  
  
• Zombie-style knives and machetes
  By September 2024, it will be illegal to possess, sell, or transport these weapons. Hand them in voluntarily before new laws take effect.

The bins align with the Raheem Sterling Foundation’s Power of 7 objectives - social mobility, employment, education, community, creativity, leadership and enterprise.

The groups listed below will support young people move away from knife crime and connect them to a more positive path, including mentoring opportunities or getting into work.