Get equipped: New course launched to tackle knife crime in Market Harborough

East Midlands Kung Fu Partners with 'Off The Streets' to provide life-saving skills.

In a proactive step to address the rising issue of knife crime, a new self-defence and first-aid course has been launched right here in Market Harborough. East Midlands Kung Fu (EMKF) is proud to introduce EDGE, a comprehensive course designed to empower the community with the knowledge and skills to navigate dangerous situations and save lives.

The course, which stands for Edged Weapons, Desensitise, Guided, Environments and Defence, will be held on Saturday, September 13th, from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM.

"With the rise of knife crime, it's more important than ever that we have the knowledge to not only recognise the signs of an impending attack but to have the skills to protect yourself if you are the victim of an attack," said Mike, Lead Instructor at EMKF.

An example of the kind of beed kit EMKF will be providing to the Market Harborough Community.

The EDGE curriculum is extensive, covering everything from what a real-life knife attack looks like to the legal implications of self-defence. A core focus is on practical defensive strategies and, crucially, life-saving first aid.

"We are more likely to be a witness to an attack than the victim," Mike added. "That's why we explore not only how to help someone who is being attacked but how to carry out life-saving first aid on a victim of an attack."

In a notable community initiative, EMKF has partnered with the local charity Off The Streets. A portion of every course fee will be donated directly to the charity to purchase traumatic bleed kits for Market Harborough.

"When someone is suffering from a traumatic bleed, getting first aid as quickly as possible can be the difference between life and death," Mike explained. "That's why we have partnered with Off The Streets to not only provide traumatic bleed kits for Market Harborough but also to provide the skills to use them."

The five-and-a-half-hour course costs £50, with 10% going to the charity. It is open to anyone aged 16 and over, while those aged 14 and above are welcome when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

For more information and to book a place, visit the East Midlands Kung Fu website.