Purpose

Let’s Be Blunt is a CIC, established and run by Leanne Lucas, who was the dance teacher present when Axel Rudakubana stabbed and killed three children and injured 10 other people including Leanne, at a dance party in Southport on 29 July 2024. Leanne will support the VRU in Policy around knife replacement schemes (swapping pointed knifes out for round edged knifes) and also support the VRU with school engagement and CPD for teachers to educate and support schools in swapping out knifes in canteens and cooking / catering education settings. Leanne will also attend other CPD events as requested by VRU.

This round table event will introduce the campaign to practitioners and senior leaders across GM and was requested by the Mayor following a meeting with Leanne in Dec 2025.

Decision

The Greater Manchester Violence Reduction Unit are seeking to make the following payments for a round table event for approx. 200 senior teachers and safeguarding leads, CSP and LA leaders specifically to promote Let’s Be Blunt campaign endorsed by the Mayor and Dep Mayor.

Lancashire County Cricket Club: Venue / refreshments £7750

Unity Radio: (audio / IT) £750

Parker Words: Compere £500