FSB Insurance Service raises over £30,000 to help tackle knife crime in Croydon

When the small team at FSB Insurance Service pledged to support a local charity tackling youth violence, they never imagined it would lead to over £30,000 raised in just one year.

But through grit, passion, and community support, that’s exactly what they’ve achieved—backing Lives Not Knives (LNK) in its mission to end knife crime in Croydon.

This achievement comes at a time when the borough is facing a surge in violence, with 1,086 knife-related incidents reported between April 2022 and September 2023—an increase of 24.5%. Behind those statistics are real people and heartbreaking stories, including the tragic loss of 15-year-old Elianne Andam, who was stabbed just metres from the FSB Insurance Service office.

Making a difference, one step at a time

LNK works with young people aged 9 to 21, offering mentorship, education, and safe spaces that provide real alternatives to violence. Inspired by the charity’s vital work, FSB Insurance Service chose LNK as its Charity of the Year for 2024.

One of the fundraising highlights was a 30-mile trek across the South Downs, completed in 15 hours by Finance Manager Vicky and Marketing Manager Duncan. The challenge was more than a physical test—it became a powerful rallying point for awareness and donations.

“We’re just a small business, but small businesses can do big things when we care enough. It was tough, but every step reminded us why we were doing it,” said Vicky.

Tackling the crisis head-on

Lives Not Knives is on the front lines of youth support, engaging 9 to 21-year-olds through tailored mentorship and educational initiatives that address the root causes of violence. Key programmes include:

• One-on-one mentoring – empowering young people to navigate challenges in education, family life, and personal development

• Educational roadshows – interactive sessions in schools raising awareness about the dangers of knife crime and promoting life skills

• Youth hub – a safe, welcoming space where young people access workshops and community support

Over the past year, FSB Insurance Service raised more than £30,000 through a series of events, significantly boosted by contributions from the Markel International Matched Giving Fund and the Aviva Broker Community Fund.

This funding will help LNK expand its vital work, ensuring more young people in Croydon have access to positive role models, opportunities, and a path away from violence.

“This funding allows us to continue supporting young people, empowering them to make positive choices,” said Eliza M Reberio, CEO of Lives Not Knives.

“We are proud to stand behind Lives Not Knives. This partnership aligns perfectly with our values of protecting communities and investing in young people’s futures,” added David Perry, CEO of FSB Insurance Service.

Image provided by FSB Insurance Service

Francesca Kaye