Surgeon back Advertiser’s “Hammer The Knife Thugs” campaign

Mar 3 2011 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

A TOP surgeon aiming to cut violence this week backed the Advertiser’s “Hammer the Knife Thugs” campaign.

Lanarkshire consultant Nick Calder, of Medics Against Violence, has warned people of the dangers and consequences of carrying and using knives.

All to often he sees the devastating impact of knife crime on young men, leaving them with scars, disabilities and psychological problems.

Medics Against Violence (MAV) is about preventing the violence before it happens.

As part of the MAV campaign, medics go into schools to talk to young people about the consequences of violence.

Dr Calder, a consultant in the eye, ear and throat clinic at Monklands Hospital, said: “We see the devastating consequences of the ongoing problem of knife crimes.

“We go into school and our message is the people who carry knives don’t realise the consequences of knife crime and what damage is done.

“People who carry knives are more likely to be a victim of knife crime.

“The aftermath of knife crime is horrific.

“When the bleeding stops, the victims are left with scars on their faces which can’t be disguised.

“This can lead to other problems including difficulties in finding a job.

“Victims are left with psychological problems and can often be frightened to go out on their own.

“Sometimes we don’t appreciate fully the impact this has on the victims of violence.”