The central objective for BTB (Beyond the Blade) is one of mentoring. We also collaborate with families, children, young people, schools and local communities, encouraging and educating young minds away from the expanding culture surrounding knife crime and youth violence. We team up with children and young people with complex issues who may need additional support or exhibit challenging behaviours, which can leave them vulnerable and at risk of criminality and serious youth violence.
Our approach is to implement innovative strategies leading to healthy psychological solutions. Our way to achieving this is simply to define problems clearly and to explore how different ideas can create something new, whilst always ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals. Our approach is Trauma-Informed and Child-Centred, and we prioritise safeguarding by creating a safe environment and promoting positive changes in attitudes and opinions. Our proposals aim to foster growth and development while maintaining the highest standards of care and protection.
Having been a former inmate and ex-gang member myself, my personal knowledge and experience is used to achieve certain goals and success, and has a real impact on young individuals. Also as a knife crime survivor, the valuable life experience I have enables me to identify these experiences and to extinguish patterns in their infancy before they become more difficult to dislodge.
Michael's interaction with the group was quiet and friendly, and the group engaged well with him throughout.
- His Honour Judge Horton
Michael eloquently described the effect it had had on him and translating that to lessons for the young people about making positive choices in their lives.
- DCI Dickon Turner, Head of Offender Management, Avon and Somerset Constabulary
I genuinely hope that Michael continues to get opportunities to deliver his messages to young people about the dangers of knife crime, making positive choices as those who really listen to what Michael has to say will benefit hugely from him.
- PC 2544 Kris WITHERS, Youth Strategy Officer, Avon and Somerset Constabulary
I was impressed by Michael when he spoke to 12 young people regarding knife crime and violence – it was apparent that they were affected by his impactful presentation. It is a memory that I will carry with me for many years about how lives can be turned around.
- Sue Mountstevens, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset
I have had the pleasure of working with Michael since 2019, when he volunteered with us on a week-long project aimed at supporting young people struggling to engage in school. Michael’s lived experience is invaluable, and he has a remarkable ability to share his powerful story in a sensitive and trauma-informed manner. He has since been asked to support individuals who are educated within a Bristol pupil referral unit and has been volunteering with the Blunt Truth team.
- Ellen Campbell, Youth Project and Engagement Coordinator for Avon and Somerset Police
Hearing Micheal’s account was a wake-up call. Knife crime is not a distant issue or something happening ‘somewhere else.’ It’s happening in communities everywhere. This experience has made me reflect on how important it is to listen.
- Hayley George, Youth project and engagement co-ordinator (BANES, North Somerset)
Michael supported in delivering an engaging and impactful knife crime workshop to the Robins Foundation BTEC sport students in March 2025, as part of the Blunt Truth initiative with Avon and Somerset Police. His ability to connect with young people through honest discussions and real-life experiences was invaluable. The session was both informative and thought-provoking, equipping participants with a deeper understanding of the consequences of knife crime.
- Nathan Fagg, Teaching Assistant,, The Robins Foundation
We offer concessionary rates for families – please get in touch to discuss options.
Organisational bookings are charged at either a daily or half-day rate, depending on group size. Additional travel and expenses may apply, or the fee may vary based on location.
DURATION: Standard Session – 1-2 Hours. Full Session 2 – 4 Hours (Custom Sessions Available)
PRICING: Standard Session, £120; Full Session, £200
LOCATION: UK
SUITABILITY: Education Setting including Primary Y6, Secondary, Colleges, Foster Homes, Young Offenders, institutions, charities and Corporations, knife Crime Prevention ( KCPOs) Workshop Type Face to Face.
If you have specific requirements or budget constraints, we’re happy to explore flexible arrangements. Please enquire for full details and to discuss your budget.
For bookings and any other enquiries, please contact us.