Knife crime in London has surged by nearly 60% in the last three years and 86% over the past decade, according to a new report by Policy Exchange. A cluster of just 20 central London streets—including Oxford Circus and Regent Street—now accounts for one in every 15 knife attacks in the city. The rise in violent crime has prompted calls for a “zero tolerance” approach, including increased use of stop-and-search tactics. While controversial, the report argues that stop-and-search aligns with demographic crime data, with a higher percentage of arrests and charges involving black offenders than the general population representation. Commander Hayley Sewart of the Met Police reported that recent efforts, including hotspot policing, technological tools, and visible neighbourhood patrols, have already led to a 16% drop in knife-related crime and reduced homicide rates. Tributes have poured in for a father and son recently killed in a targeted attack, highlighting the human cost of this violence. Leaders stress that curbing knife crime requires a united approach from police, government, and society at large.

The UK Government is facing pressure to widen access to its proposed “top tier” sickness benefits, following concerns that people with fluctuating conditions such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis (MS) may be unfairly excluded. Under current Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) proposals, only those whose symptoms “constantly” prevent work would qualify for enhanced universal credit and be exempt from regular medical reassessments. Labour MP Graeme Downie has tabled an amendment to expand eligibility to those with “evolving” or fluctuating conditions. He argues that the cost of living with conditions like Parkinson’s - where even simple daily tasks may require expensive alternatives - requires consistent financial support. Parkinson’s UK and other campaigners support the change, warning that current criteria fail to reflect the live realities of such illnesses. While ministers have agreed to remove similar restrictive clauses from the personal independence payment (PIP) system, the universal credit health element still raises concern. With cross-party backing, the amendment seeks to ensure compassion and fairness for those whose disabilities vary in severity from hour to hour.

Police are investigating an alleged assault at St Pancras International station in London after video footage surfaced showing right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, near a man lying motionless on the floor. The incident occurred on Monday evening around 8:40 p.m. A man was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. British Transport Police confirmed they are seeking to question a 42-year-old man from Bedfordshire who reportedly left the country on a flight early Tuesday morning. The video, circulating widely online, does not show the alleged moment of assault, but captures Robinson pacing near the injured man and shouting to onlookers that he acted in self-defence. Robinson has since reposted a tweet asserting that he was attacked first. Police continue to review the footage and work to locate the suspect. The incident has sparked renewed public debate over Robinson’s controversial public presence and past criminal record. Authorities urge anyone with additional information or footage to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

A year after the tragic attack that claimed the lives of Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Alice da Silva Aguiar (9) during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, the nation paused for a three-minute silence to remember the victims. On July 29, 2024, the girls were fatally attacked by 17-year-old Axel Rudakuban. The attack also injured ten others and left deep psychological scars on many. Rather than floral tributes at the site, residents were invited to place flowers in Southport Town Hall Gardens and support charitable causes created in the girls’ honour. Charities like Elsie’s Story, Bebe’s Hive, and Alice’s Wonderdance now serve as living legacies. Families and school staff have spoken of both immense grief and the outpouring of kindness that has followed. The Council and community leaders have provided safe, respectful spaces for mourning, reflection, and healing. Across Sefton and the wider region, flags were lowered as a mark of respect. Amid devastating loss, hope and love continue to shine through such acts of remembrance and compassion.