BORIS Johnson will step up the war on violent crime this week with fresh action to stop youngsters being dragged into gang culture.
The PM has approved an extra stream of funding for specialist teams operating in 18 of the worst hotspots.
A 35million cash boost will enhance the work of Violence Reduction Units set up to tackle the root causes of street crime.
It is part of a two-pronged approach, coupled with hiring 20,000 extra cops and tougher jail sentences for serious offenders.
The units work with schools, youth clubs and community groups to intervene long before kids pick up a weapon.
Hospital staff and social workers have now been given a legal duty to protect youngsters by flagging up knife wounds, suspicious injuries or unusual behaviour.
Teachers are also under an obligation to report danger signs.
Police recorded 47,000 offences involving a knife or sharp instrument in England and Wales in the year up to March 2019.
In London alone, 2019 was the bloodiest year in a decade with 133 people violently killed.
Home Secretary Priti Patel yesterday said: I will not tolerate criminals drawing vulnerable young people into a life of violence.
The units play a vital role in diverting young people away from crime and the funding Ill announce will allow them to continue this important work.
