New survey findings from Cornerstone VR have revealed the transformative impact of immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences on young people’s understanding of knife crime and serious youth violence.
The survey, conducted with focus groups of young people aged 14-18, showed that eight out of ten participants were deterred from carrying knives after watching VR films created by Cornerstone VR. According to the findings, 83% of young people said they were deterred from carrying a knife in the future, while 75% reported a change in their perspective on knife carrying. Additionally, 83% gained a better understanding of the risks and consequences of knife carrying, and 100% said they would actively discourage a friend from carrying a knife.
The VR experience also motivated 92% of participants to make safer choices for themselves.
The survey was conducted in partnership with Thurrock Council, Enfield Council, and professionals from police forces, councils, schools, and youth justice services. The film series presents scenarios ranging from a knife-point robbery to the aftermath of a stabbing, created with the goal of educating and empowering young people to make safer choices.
“We are proud to provide educators and practitioners with a tool that not only informs but also inspires behavioral change,” said Serena Hadi, Head of Operations and Practice at Cornerstone VR. “Our findings show that immersive VR can change perspectives, challenge harmful narratives, and empower young people to make safer choices.”
The Knife Crime and Serious Youth Violence Film Series is part of Cornerstone VR’s library of over 60 immersive experiences covering critical safeguarding and wellbeing issues. Topics include abuse, neglect, exploitation, youth violence, and the influence of social media. These sessions can be delivered to professionals for trauma-informed training or directly to young people in schools and community settings.
“Knife crime continues to devastate families and communities across the UK,” added Hadi. “Our findings demonstrate the power of immersive VR to effect real change.”
Safeguarding teams interested in exploring the programme can arrange a free demo by visiting www.cornerstonevr.co.uk/arrange-demo.
**About Cornerstone VR**
Cornerstone VR is an award-winning, virtual reality-based learning and intervention platform that helps professionals and young people better understand, prevent, and respond to real-world challenges.
https://www.businessmole.com/virtual-reality-programme-found-to-be-effective-in-reducing-knife-carrying-among-young-people-reveals-recent-survey/
