Ann Oakes-Odger MBE

What I do

I am the Founder of KnifeCrimes.Org which is an online Resource specialising in the reduction of Knife, Gun & Gang related crime. Following the murder on my son, Westley Odger to an unprovoked fatal knife attack at 3pm on the 12th September, 2005 the organisation was launched to raise awareness to 'Knife Crime' and campaign for Education throughout UK Schools. The programme called 'Westley's Weapons Awareness' visits Schools to engage young people to the consequences of becoming involved in crime.

Have you been involved with film in your work? If so, how and what was your role?

I have been involved in a number of documentary films in an advisory capacity. As a representative of KnifeCrimes.Org and on a personal level, explaining the emotional cost to a family of losing a child to violence. As an organisation that supports many families that have had a loved-one taken to violence, we understand the emotional needs of the family following such a traumatic loss.

How would you like to work with film in future?

I would like to use the expertise I have gained to assist in producing films that are informative. Using 'Best Practise' at all times to achieve the reduction of violent crime in Society through early intervention.

3 things you've worked on that have done real good in the world

Lobbying for the 1st Home Affairs Select Committee Debate on Knife Crime in March, 2007. Giving evidence to the Street Weapons Commission in 2008 and the 2nd Select Committee Debate in 2009.

The Home Office 'IT DOESN'T HAVE TO HAPPEN' Campaign...to engage Young People to the consequences of crime through 'Westley's Weapons Awareness' programme. Being involved in the Essex Police 2 Smart Roadshow...'A Mother's Story' and School talks that have engaged over 18,000 Yr 7's (11/12 year olds) in Essex during 2009, so far.