Police Scotland has introduced a Violence Prevention Week, from Monday 10 to Sunday 16 August 2026, which will focus on action being taken by the Service to safeguard Scotland’s children and young people from violent crime.
Throughout the week, Police Scotland will share examples of work driven by local police officers, alongside partners from the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, local authorities, education, health, social work and the third sector, to protect children and young people from harm.
This forms an important part of a coordinated, national approach named ‘Operation Stardrop’ which was stood up in 2025 with the aim of preventing children from committing or becoming victims of violent crime. This followed on from several incidents involving under 18s which resulted in the deaths of three young people.
Assistant Chief Constable Wendy Middleton, Police Scotland lead for violence, said: “We care deeply about violence and how it affects the communities we serve. Addressing the harmful effects of violent crime and supporting victims is a priority for Police Scotland. Work takes place every day, driven by police officers who know their local communities best and in collaboration with partner organisations, to safeguard Scotland’s children and young people from the devastating impacts of violence and weapon carrying.
“During Violence Prevention Week, we will share information across Police Scotland’s social media channels and website about ongoing action taking place across the country to listen to Scotland’s young people, and provide them with safe spaces and alternatives to involvement in crime.
“If you are a young person who knows information about violent crime, including someone carrying a weapon, I encourage you to report it. You can report it anonymously at fearless.org, the youth service of Crimestoppers. If you are an adult, you can report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or directly to Police Scotland by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.”
