Young people are asked views on knife and gun crime

YOUNG people across Scotland are being asked to share their views about knife and gun crime in one of the largest UK-wide consultations on the issue.

Yesterday, the Evening News reported that Lothian Police were called to schools about incidents involving a weapon - often a knife or air rifle - at least once a day.

Children's charity NCH wants to ask young people how they have been affected by knife and gun crime, why they think it happens, and how it can be tackled.

The charity plans to use its findings to develop solutions on the issue that acknowledge young people's views and makes them feel safer in their communities.

Andrew Girvan, director of Children Services for NCH Scotland, said: "We need to understand the reasons why young people carry knives and guns if we are to get to the root of the problem. To do that we have to talk to young people and listen to what they say."

To take part in the survey, go to www.nch.org.uk