— Six tonnes of seized knives recycled into free, outdoor gyms across London
EMR and Steel Warriors have removed nearly six tonnes of knives from London’s streets. The leader in sustainable materials and London-based charity will transform these dangerous weapons into outdoor gym equipment for the people of the UK’s capital.
Founded in 2017, Steel Warriors repurposes melted-down knives to build free public gyms, offering young people safe, positive spaces to improve their physical and mental well-being. The charity has already established four gyms across London, plus one in Brixton Prison, and aims to expand further this year with EMR’s support.
The knives were shredded at EMR’s Willesden site and will be sent to a specialist foundry in Stourbridge to be crafted into gym equipment. EMR provided its services free of charge, saving the charity significant costs and ensuring the project’s success.
This partnership aligns with EMR’s commitment to delivering positive social impact, helping turn dangerous weapons into community assets. By fostering positive activities, Steel Warriors aims to build stronger, safer communities across the UK, while EMR’s role in the initiative supports the responsible reuse of materials, contributing to a circular and resource-efficient future.
Damian Tambling, Site Manager at EMR Willesden, said:
“Everyone here at EMR Willesden – including myself – live in the local communities around the site. We all want to play our part in making the streets safer for our loved ones. Working with Steel Warriors is an incredible opportunity for us to feel even more connected to our communities.”
Jenny Oklikah, Chief Executive at Steel Warriors, added:
“We are hugely grateful to the team at EMR for this important partnership. EMR’s specialist expertise in helping to turn knives into gyms together with their commitment to making positive social change, means that Steel Warriors can support more young people and communities, not just now but in years to come.”
As Steel Warriors looks to create a UK-wide network of outdoor street workout gyms, which are safe and welcoming, EMR will continue to support this important initiative and help to inspire change and resilience in communities around the country.
