ANTI-VIOLENCE

Since the beginning of 2008 almost 20 teenagers have been victims of violent crime in London alone. With increasing evidence that more young people are carrying weapons such as knives and guns young people are beginning to feel increasingly unsafe across the UK.

The police can and will search anyone they think is carrying a gun or a knife. It is illegal to carry a knife – and that means anything with a blade or sharp point – in public and the police will arrest you. Similarly there are strict laws about owning a gun and it is still illegal to carry a gun in a public place without a good reason. Everyone can make a difference in helping to stop violent crime and even save a life. If you know someone who is involved in violent crime call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

MTV UK is working with a number of organisations – including the Metropolitan Police Service and Urban Concepts - to give you the information and advice you might be looking for. Over the next couple of months we hope to launch projects that will help to tackle violent crime in communities. www.dont-trigger.com

CAMPAIGNS

SEXUAL HEALTH

Staying Alive is MTV’s global HIV and AIDS prevention campaign. For the past two decades it has challenged stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS and empowered young people to protect themselves from infection. It has become the world’s largest HIV and AIDS media campaign and working with partners globally continues to give help and support to anyone who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Launched in 2007, MTV SWITCH is the first dedicated campaign on climate change for young people. MTV believes that no action – however small – is insignificant when it comes to making a difference to global warming. So try our very own carbon calculator and work out how you can make a difference.

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

It is never easy to talk to people about how you are feeling about your life. MTVi has partnered with Big White Wall to offer ways to express yourself anonymously and get support from others.

DRUGS

If you are going to be exposed to drugs or drug use then you need to know the facts. On this site you will find the basics on drugs, what they do and what their side effects.