Round Midnight, a leading provider of virtual reality (VR) experiences, is honored to host an event on behalf of the Greater Manchester Magistrates Association to address the pressing issue of knife crime in the city. Knife crime has plagued Manchester for many years, causing fear, loss, and devastation in communities. This event aims to tackle this problem head-on by showcasing Round Midnight’s innovative and award-winning Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES programme.
Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES is an interactive, choose-your-own-path VR simulation that explores the consequences of knife crime and delves into the reasons why young people carry weapons. By immersing individuals in a virtual scenario, the programme allows them to experience firsthand the potential outcomes of their decisions. It is a powerful tool that fosters empathy, understanding, and critical thinking.
During the event, a guest will journey through the VR experience in front of an invited audience. This audience will have the unique opportunity to witness the decisions the guest makes within the interactive story. By observing these choices and their consequences, the audience will gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding knife crime.
Round Midnight will also take the opportunity to highlight the success and continued impact of the follow-on Anti-Knife Crime Curriculum in schools across Manchester. This comprehensive curriculum, developed in collaboration with educators and criminologists, equips students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and resist the influence of knife crime. By implementing this curriculum, Round Midnight aims to empower young people and create a safer future for all.
The event will take place on 27th September from 11am-3pm at No.1 Circle Square, 3 Symphony Park Manchester M1 7FS. In addition to the VR experience, the event will include a panel discussion with guest speakers, providing a platform for dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals who are committed to combating knife crime.
“We have worked closely with the Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit for a number of years, and we are pleased to see a 15.2% reduction in knife crime in the city in 2023,” said Director and Founder Claire Downes. “We believe that the work we are doing in schools is making an impact and changing young people’s attitudes to knife crime. However, this event is timely and critical in light of the recent death of a teenage boy on September 15th, after a stabbing in Manchester. Knife crime remains a serious problem in Manchester, and we are committed to doing everything we can to tackle it.”
Round Midnight invites residents, educators, and community leaders to join them at this pivotal event. By attending, participants will gain valuable insights into the fight against knife crime and explore innovative solutions. The event promises to be an important platform for discussion and collaboration, with the aim of shaping a safer future for all.
To reserve a spot at the event or for more information, please contact Jess Melia, Head of Digital Communication, Round Midnight Ltd, at [email protected] or 07402 209940.
About Round Midnight:
Established in 1992, Round Midnight is a pioneering company at the forefront of creating award-winning virtual reality experiences that confront and illuminate pressing social issues. Through immersive content and cutting-edge technology, Round Midnight aims to spark important conversations, promote empathy, and inspire positive change. The company is also proud to be a partner of the Meta Device Donation Program and has recently won the Innovation Award at the Education Awards 2023 for Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES and the follow-on Anti-Knife Crime Curriculum.
To learn more about Round Midnight and their work, visit their website: https://www.roundmidnight.org.uk/virtual_decisions-knives-knife-crime-awareness/
About The Magistrates Association:
The Magistrates Association (MA) is a national charity that provides education and training to magistrates, as well as others who support the justice system. The MA aims to raise awareness of the role of magistrates in the criminal justice system and ensure that the public understands their crucial contribution. The Greater Manchester Branch of the MA covers magistrates in the Bolton, Manchester and Salford, Stockport, Tameside, and Wigan magistrates’ courts. The branch works tirelessly to support magistrates in their work and promote their role within the community.
To learn more about The Magistrates Association, visit their website: https://www.gmma-mic.net/
In conclusion, Round Midnight’s event on September 27th provides a unique opportunity to explore the issue of knife crime in Manchester. By showcasing the Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES programme and discussing the success of the Anti-Knife Crime Curriculum, Round Midnight aims to engage individuals and foster a collective commitment to addressing this critical issue. With the support of the Greater Manchester Magistrates Association and the participation of residents, educators, and community leaders, this event has the potential to shape a safer future for Manchester and beyond. RSVP today to be part of this important dialogue.
