A campaign group targeting knife crime in Swindon has begun a series of interventions in schools and colleges.

Owen's World was set up in the wake of Owen Dunn's murder in 2022 with the aim of preventing any further fatalities to knife crime in the area. 

On May 15, members of the charitable organisation visited both campuses of New College Swindon to deliver their powerful message fuelled by their own grief and loss.

The group have also recently visited a number of schools in the area, including St Luke's Academy and Lawn Manor Academy. 

Speaking to the BBC about the session raising awareness of the realities of knife crime during their St Lukes visit on May 9, Owen's mum Zoe Mitchell said that she "cries every day" that she delivers the session, but it gives her "hope" that perhaps it will prevent someone else having to experience losing a loved one to knife crime.

The sessions cover sentencing for knife crimes, child exploitation into drug gangs, first aid, and peer pressure. 

They also feature photographs and recollections from those who knew and loved Owen, as well as footage, including the emotional video that played during Owen's funeral. 

After their visit to St Luke's, Joanne Davis, CEO of Owen's World, said: "We really enjoy working with all the teachers and pupils of these schools and colleges who work really hard to make a safe environment for all pupils and empower pupils to change their lives around.

"It was a lovely experience for us!"

After Owen's World's visit to Lawn Manor Academy, a spokesperson said: "Last week students within the LINK provision had the privilege of welcoming Owen’s World for their session on understanding knife crime and crime prevention.

"The students fell silent in awe at the bravery shown by Owen's mum, who delivered the session and who had sadly lost her son through knife crime.

"Many of our students asked brave questions and were incredibly respectful of everything they heard."

As well as talking to schools, Owen's World has installed several bleed kits in Swindon.

It is also carrying out first-aid training sessions, with spaces available for the next ones on June 2 from 11am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 3.30pm at the community room in the Ocotal Way, Tesco supermarket. 

You can find out more about the bleed kits and book a first-aid session on the Owen's World website.