A thought-provoking sculpture has been on display at Hartpury University and Hartpury College today (Friday 23 February 2024) as part of a tour of the UK designed to spark discussions with young people about the dangers of weapons and violence. Funded by the Knife Angel Legacy Fund, Crimestoppers and Gloucester BID, the Manchester Bee is being supported by a number of regional partners during its time in Gloucestershire, including Hartpury.
Made from weapons seized off the streets, this unique monument is the creation of the British Ironwork Centre and is intended to be a catalyst for conversations among young people about crime and violence. The Bee marks one year since the Knife Angel came to Gloucester Cathedral, when the resulting conversations contributed to a 50% increase in information about criminal activity being reported through Crimestoppers.
The Bee’s tour of the city and county aims to encourage people to speak up - particularly if they’re worried about a friend or sibling involved in violence or in danger of being drawn into violence.
The Bee’s tour of the region started on Friday 16 February in Kings Square before progressing to the Gloucester Cathedral Green on Saturday 17 February where it was accompanied by the Music Works Bus and Hollie Gazzard Trust. The Hollie Gazzard Trust was created following the murder of Hollie Gazzard by her abusive ex-partner in 2014, and campaigns against gender-based violence and knife crime. The Bee comes at a significant time for the city of Gloucester as it marks the 10th anniversary of the 20-year-old’s death. The Trust is organising an Active Bystander Conference that will be hosted at Hartpury on 10 July 2024, bringing together around 100 industry and academic experts who will discuss the empowerment and positive transformation that an Active Bystander programme can bring about.
Lesley Worsfold, Deputy Principal (Resources) at Hartpury University and Hartpury College said: “It’s a privilege for us to be hosting the Manchester Bee here at Hartpury, providing an opportunity for as many of our students and staff as possible to see this incredible sculpture up close. We’re encouraging our college and university students to take a moment of reflection as they visit the sculpture, thinking about the vital need for us all to do what we can to prevent violent crime.
“The Knife Angel had a hugely positive impact on the community and we feel very strongly about supporting initiatives like these in any way we can. We’re also looking forward to hosting the Active Bystander Conference later this year where we can work with our partners to continue the fight against youth violence and hopefully improve peace and safety on our streets and in our homes.”
The Safeguarding, Wellbeing and Health teams offer a secure, caring and confidential environment where students feel valued and respected. They provide wellbeing support and free short-term counselling, as well as signposting and connecting students with other services where appropriate. Hartpury University’s Achievement and Success Centre as well as Hartpury College’s Aspire learning support facilities work to help students with academic support, learning support and wellbeing support. The Wellbeing Chaplain helps with spiritual and faith issues and offers a listening ear when students need someone to talk to.
Hartpury continually works with partners to support or host events and workshops that provide students with information about where they can find support. WellFest is perhaps the most high-profile event of this kind held on campus, taking place each September and welcoming organisations that provide a wealth of information to students about health, safety and wellbeing.
