Rhian Howells- Education and Engagement Lead
What Young People Really Want to Know
Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting a group of young people at a youth club in Aberaeron. During our chat, I asked them what parts of the law they’d like to learn more about. One question really stood out: “What are the rules about carrying things for self-defence?”
With a lot of buzz in the mainstream press about safety and on social media about carrying items like pepper spray for protection, it’s a question that’s really relevant right now. So, we asked one of our lawyer contacts to explain the law — and here’s what they said:
‘There is no defence of self-defence when carrying a weapons. Just carrying an item, such as pepper spray, can be seen as an aggravating factor because it shows that someone is prepared to use the item to harm if it was needed.’
Many young people — and adults — don’t realise that carrying items like pepper sprays, stun devices, knuckledusters, or so-called ‘self-defence sprays’ is actually illegal.
How can you stay safe — legally?
If you’re worried about your safety, there are plenty of lawful ways to protect yourself:
- Personal alarms – loud and attention-grabbing.
- Strong torch – light up dark areas.
- High-visibility clothing – stay seen, especially at night.
- Phone apps – track routes or alert friends/family. (Such as Walk Safe APP)
- Route planning – know the safest way home.
And remember: if you ever feel in immediate danger, call 999.
What’s the bigger picture?
Unfortunately over the last 10 years there has been an increase in sexual assault, and a general increase in police recorded sexual offences over the last decade. However, it is suggested this may largely be because of improvements in police recording practices.
Despite what the main stream press and social media might suggest, crimes against individuals (including violent crimes) have declined overall, over the last 10 years. Additionally, knife and offensive weapon offences among young people have actually gone down by 6% compared to last year according to the Youth Justice Board (YJB). This marks the sixth consecutive year of decline. Dr Rhian Croke from Children’s Legal Centre Wales highlights the importance of an evidence-based response to knife crime in her blog.
So, if you are concerned and thinking of protecting yourself, please be aware of what the law says!