Greater Manchester Police (GMP) will soon take part in a national scheme where knives can be surrendered in exchange for compensation.

From 26 August, the new 'surrender scheme' will mean that zombie knives (that's a knife with a blade of more than eight inches and a serrated edge) can be handed in at designated police stations. Compensation can then be claimed from the Home Office.

There are 11 designated surrender points across Greater Manchester - see a full list HERE.

The scheme will last until 23 September. From 24 September, it will be illegal to own zombie knives, and you could be prosecuted for owning one.

For more details on what constitutes a zombie knife, and how you can hand them in and claim compensation, see HERE.

The standard compensation is £10, but you can claim for a higher amount if you think your knife is worth more.

Cheadle Heath Police Station is Stockport's designated drop-off point for zombie knives from 26 August to 23 September 2024 (Image - Google Maps)

Superintendent Caroline Hemingway who leads GMP's response to knife crime said: "I'm extremely proud of the work of our team and this new legislation will only help this further.

"In July 2024, we saw a 4% decrease in serious violent crime from June 2024.

"We remain committed and determined to ensure the impact of knife crime is tackled head on with robust policing and effective education.

"Prevention is prioritised, and we do a lot of work in schools and with health partners. It's not just about policing our way out of the issue. What this scheme will do is give us the opportunity to take more knives off the streets, but potentially save lives."

Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of policing, crime, criminal justice, and fire said: "Although the work of Operation Venture [GMP's knife-tackling operation] is undoubtedly effective in removing knives from our streets, we are keen to get upstream of the issue and prevent anyone in Greater Manchester from making the decision to carry a weapon in the first place."

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