About Us
Word 4 Weapons is a leading UK weapons-surrender charity established, in 2007 by the founder Michael Smith MBE, the charity holds a legacy of award-winning achievements.
All awards were made to Michael (Mike) Smith and are marked or engraved accordingly.
The bins were later called ‘Weapons Bins’ as we found all kinds of weapons being deposited in them, we no longer referred to them as knife bins. Over the years the bins have been redesigned and with much thicker superior metal for ballistic purposes.
Historically, W4W was founded on the principle of ‘Weapons Exchange’. The public were invited to surrender any weapon, sharp tools, old kitchen knives etc, in exchange for an ‘All I Need’ Bag, containing a Bible and other literature and useful gifts
Our impact is undeniable. As an estimation over the years, we have removed, eliminated tens of thousands of knives, oftentimes guns, and other deadly weapons from our streets. Individuals can anonymously and safely deposit knives of any type in a W4W bin. Members of the public, having recognised the gravity of knife related incidents, have willingly deposited weapons in our weapon Bins Public support and community support are crucial, and their involvement cannot be under estimated.
Word 4 Weapons bins are in other UK towns, and cities outside of London, we also offer a range of education and training for schools, parents, and youth workers, which will provide awareness sessions, as well as a range of useful resources.
With your support, we pledge to continue our relentless pursuit of collecting weapons, saving lives. W4W stands by our mantra, ‘Collecting Knives, Saving Lives,’ and our mission remains unwavering, to forge safer communities through the voluntary surrender of knives and use the use of your words, rather than a weapons.
“Collecting Knives, Saving Lives Let Your Words Be Your Weapon”
Word 4 Weapons’ mission is twofold and simple: to empower safer communities through our knife amnesty bins, reduce harm, and empower individuals to make better choices.
“Our mission statement is clear and simple, yet powerful. We are dedicated to minimising harm and empowering individuals in communities with the resources through our amnesty knife bins, to prevent violence and cultivate change when it comes to carrying weapons. Word 4 Weapons is committed to assisting partner agencies in creating safer communities, by providing a compassionate and positive pathway, for individuals to surrender weapons.
“Collecting Knives, Saving Lives , Let Your Words Be Your Weapon”
Our Approach
At Word 4 Weapons, we are committed to fostering safer communities through the reduction of gun and knife violence. Our core values revolve around empowerment, education, and engagement. We believe in empowering individuals, especially the youth, with the tools and knowledge necessary to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. Our ultimate goal is to transform lives and communities, making them safer and more harmonious for everyone.
In addressing knife crime, our fundamental value is the preservation of life and the promotion of community safety. Our approach is holistic, recognising that knife crime is a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions. Our commitment extends to supporting victims and their families, providing them with the necessary resources and support. Through collaboration, education, and proactive intervention, we aim to reduce knife crime and build stronger, safer communities.