Prisoner warns others of dangers of carrying a knife
A Nottingham prisoner serving time for carrying a knife is warning others about the life-altering consequences of taking a weapon onto the streets.
Twenty-three-year old Quiheim Richardson has spent his time at HMP Ranby reflecting on the choices that led to his 33-month prison sentence. After taking part in a young adult prison mentoring programme, he is determined to help others avoid making the same mistakes.
As part of Sceptre Week, a national campaign against knife crime, Quiheim shared his journey and the lessons he’s learned through the Young Adult Mentoring Programme, which is funded by Nottinghamshire’s Violence Reduction Partnership.
The programme, delivered by Ingeus within HMP Ranby, helped him rebuild his life and gain a new perspective.
The Young Adult Mentoring Programme launched in July 2024, and supports young adults aged 18–25 from Nottinghamshire, who have been imprisoned for violence and or gang related offences, with the goal of reducing violence inside and outside of prison.
The programme focuses on building resilience, improving life skills, and creating strong support networks.
Quiheim, who is now committed to helping others avoid the same issues, has become a powerful example of personal change.
“If I could talk to my younger self, I would say there’s no need to carry a knife,” he said.
“There’s nothing to fear. Trust in yourself and believe that you will be alright. I carried a knife for protection because of issues I was dealing with, but going through the process I’ve gone through has shown me it’s just not worth it."
Through the mentoring programme, Quiheim was able to better understand the emotions and situations that led him to make poor decisions. He’s learned how to manage his anger, recognise early signs of conflict, and make better choices in tough situations.
“The mentoring programme has helped me to understand the way I was feeling and the situations I found myself in,” he said.
“Now, I know how to control my anger, spot the signs before things escalate, and take control of how I feel.
“If you’re ever thinking about picking up a knife, just don’t do it – it’s not worth it, and if you hurt someone, it will stay with you forever.”
Ingeus provide structured 1-2-1 sessions and the provision of group work once deemed appropriate and risk assessed.
They also support the recruitment, training and support of peer mentors within the prisoner cohort.
Peer mentors are then able to support other prisoners and strengthen future sustainability of the service.
The Violence Reduction Partnership, which commissioned the programme, is a Home Office-funded initiative focused on reducing serious violence across Nottinghamshire. The VRP uses a public health approach to address the root causes of violence, bringing together local agencies, including police, local authorities, and community organisations, to create long-term solutions.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of the VRP, Gary Godden, stressed the importance of preventative efforts like the Young Adult Mentoring Programme. "We are committed to reducing serious violence and providing support to those at risk in Nottinghamshire.
"It’s vital that young people understand the devastating consequences of carrying a weapon and are given the tools to make better choices.
“Quiheim’s story is a powerful reminder that change is possible, and we must keep working together to prevent further harm."
The Young Adult Mentoring Programme is part of a broader strategy to tackle serious violence in Nottinghamshire.
By focusing on early intervention and support, the VRP is working with partners including Nottinghamshire Police to create safer communities for all.
James Foreman, East Midlands Regional Manager for Ingeus, said: “Ingeus is proud to deliver the Young Adult Mentoring Programme at HMP Ranby.
“Shaped by lived experience, it breaks down barriers and empowers young adults to make positive choices for their future.
“The programme has been effective in improving behaviour in custody and we aim to ensure this continues as individuals transition back into the community.
“A core element focuses on reflection and decision-making, including our ‘Build a Life Without a Knife’ session, which helps young people understand that knife crime destroys lives and inspires real change.
“Quiheim’s progress is testament to the dedication of our facilitators and sends a powerful message that change is possible, and that carrying a knife comes with devastating consequences."