To help reduce knife crime, it will be against the law to own zombie-style knives and machetes from 24 September 2024.

Ahead of this law coming into effect, Lancashire are taking part in a national surrender and compensation scheme. This scheme allows individuals in England and Wales to surrender these items to the police between 26 August and 23 September 2024. During this period, eligible owners can claim compensation, provided they meet specific criteria and submit their claims at the time of surrender. This initiative is essential for ensuring public safety and compliance with the new law.

Which items will be become illegal?

The weapon, sometimes known as a ‘zombie-style’ knife or ‘zombie-style’ machete, being a bladed article with –

• A plain cutting edge;
• A sharp pointed end; and
• A blade over eight inches in length

Which also has one or more of the following features –

• A serrated cutting edge
• More than one hold in the blade
• Spikes
• More than two sharp points in the blade

For more information on the scheme and eligible items, please visit the official gov.uk website here.

How do I hand over my knives?

You can take them to one of the below police stations in Lancashire where a member of staff will help you fill out a compensation form if you are eligible.

The knife or machete must be wrapped up and placed in a sealed bag or box when you are travelling to and inside the police station. They must not be carried openly at any time.

At the police station, do not take the item out until you are asked to do so by a member of police staff.

• Blackpool Police Station, Gerry Richardson Way off Clifton Street, Blackpool, FY4 4US

• Lancaster Police Station, Thurnham Street, Lancaster, LA1 1YB

• Fleetwood Police Station, 45 North Church Street, Fleetwood, FY7 6HJ

• Preston Police Station, Lancaster Road, North Preston, PR1 2SA

• Chorley Police Station, St Thomas’s Road, Chorley, PR7 1DR

• Skelmersdale Police Station, Southway, Skelmersdale, WN8 6NH

• Leyland Police Station, Lancaster Gate, Leyland, PR25 2EX

• Blackburn Police Station (Greenbank), Whitebirk Drive, Blackburn, BB13HP

• Burnley Police Station, Parker Lane, Burnley, BB11 2BT

How do I claim compensation?

Claims for compensation must be made when you hand the knife or knives over to the police. You will not be able to claim later.

You will need to complete the necessary parts of the surrender and compensation form to make a claim.

The standard compensation for each item is £10. Claims may only be made where the total value of the claim is at least £30. If you think your item is worth more, you can claim for the higher amount with supporting evidence, such as a receipt.

All claim forms will be sent to the Home Office for processing.

If you have a query about your claim, you can email the Home Office case working team.