North Yorkshire Police has teamed up with the One Punch UK charity in a collaborative effort to prevent tragic deaths and life-changing injuries caused by one-punch incidents. The campaign targets men aged 18 to 35 at pubs, bars, gyms, and sporting clubs during the summer holidays and the festive period. Additionally, in September, during the ‘One Punch Awareness Week,’ the focus will shift to secondary school children.
In the past year, North Yorkshire has witnessed four such incidents, prompting the police to take early intervention and prevention measures to reverse this concerning trend. Partnering with One Punch UK will help raise awareness among younger adults and schoolchildren about the devastating consequences of a single punch.
One Punch UK, founded by Maxine and Anthony Thompson-Curl, seeks to educate people about the impact of one-punch violence. The charity was born out of personal tragedy when their son, Kristian, lost his life at the age of 19 after being punched in the head during a night out in Consett, County Durham, in September 2010.
Maxine Thompson-Curl, CEO of One Punch UK, urges people to “stop, think and walk away” to avoid such tragedies. The charity has been working tirelessly for ten years, supporting families affected by one-punch incidents and educating thousands of schoolchildren about the consequences of violent actions.
Maxine emphasises the importance of understanding the power of a single punch and the ripple effect it can have on numerous lives. She encourages licensed premises and bar staff to be vigilant about customers who may drink excessively, often a contributing factor in such assaults.
Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Sygrove from North Yorkshire Police’s Major Investigation Team stresses the significance of the ‘Punched Out Cold’ campaign. He highlights the devastating impact of one-punch incidents on families and friends and urges people to be responsible for their actions, especially when alcohol and illegal drugs are involved.
The campaign emphasises that one punch can quickly change lives, turning someone into a killer or causing life-changing injuries. North Yorkshire Police, along with local authority partners, will work closely with pubs, bars, gyms, and sporting clubs to raise awareness and promote responsible behavior.
The Neighbourhood Policing Teams will also be actively involved, distributing ‘Punched Out Cold’ posters and engaging with members of gyms and sporting clubs across the region. North Yorkshire Police aims to create a safer environment for everyone, urging individuals to think twice and walk away from potentially violent confrontations.
