A new knife surrender bin has been installed at North Middlesex University Hospital in Enfield as part of a national weapons surrender scheme led by the Home Office in collaboration with Word4Weapons, aimed at reducing knife crime and encouraging the safe disposal of dangerous weapons.
The new bin provides a safe, anonymous and accessible way for people to surrender knives and other bladed weapons, with no questions asked.
It is located on the corner of Sterling Way and the entrance to the Hospital's multi-storey carpark, Edmonton, N18.
The surrender scheme runs throughout July 2025, and is part of the government’s broader Safer Streets mission to halve knife crime. Bins will remain in place in some locations, including at North Middlesex Hospital.
As part of the scheme, a FazAmnesty mobile knife surrender van will visit Edmonton Green on 31 July, with support from Northside Youth and Community Connections (NYCC), offering another discreet opportunity for residents to dispose of weapons safely.
Councillor Gina Needs, Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Enforcement, said: “We're working with all of our partners and local organisations to achieve safer streets. If you’re worried about someone you know, especially a young person, please talk to them. Encourage them to use these facilities instead of carrying a knife. It could save a life.”
The knife surrender scheme allows for completely anonymous drop-offs, and no personal information is required. Young people in particular are being encouraged to make use of the facility, especially if they are uncomfortable visiting a police station. From Friday 1 August 2025 onwards, new legislation will make it unlawful to import, manufacture, possess or sell a certain type of blade called a ninja sword. Anybody caught in possession of one in private could face six months in prison.
Dr Nnenna Osuji, Chief Executive of North Middlesex University Hospital and Community Services, said: "Knife crime is a public health issue in Enfield, and as a healthcare provider we regularly witness the consequences of it.
“This new knife surrender bin offers a way to securely dispose of weapons which will help keep our community safe. We have deliberately positioned it in a convenient location which is not under scrutiny and close to the public entrance to the site. We hope this will allow people to feel safe when surrendering their weapons. We are committed to working with local partners to support and protect the health and wellbeing of our local population.”
Chris McCoy founder of NYCC commented: “At NYCC, weapons collection is just one part of our wider work. We use creative activities like music, fitness, and digital repair to engage young people, then connect them with industry professionals who teach the business side helping them turn talent into legal income. We also offer a mobile weapons collection service for those who can’t reach a surrender bin but want support. If someone is in need, we can help offering advice, mentoring, and long-term, tailored support. The weapons surrender scheme is important.”
Enfield Council has a range of support services to help young people find positive activities, advice and mentoring help. Find out about how we are supporting a safer Enfield and young people to thrive at the Youth Enfield website .
At North Middlesex University Hospital, the Oasis Youth Support team engages with young people up to the age of 25 who have been admitted with injuries related to violence or aggression. They offer one-to-one support to help them understand the causes of their involvement in violence, and guide them towards safer, positive futures.
Knife surrender bin at Sterling Way
Cllr Erbil, Dr Osuji and cllr Needs next to the knife surrender bin
Chris McCoy and Cllr Erbil talking next to knife surrender bin
Cllr Needs next to knife surrender bin
