Dave's story

On a night out, David McLeish was the victim of a knife attack—an experience that changed his life forever.

Knife crime doesn't just leave a mark in the moment. The trauma and consequences ripple through every part of a person's life—physically, emotionally, socially—and affect everyone around them: families, friends, and whole communities.

David has chosen to share his story publicly to help others understand the real, long-term impact of knife violence. His honesty and courage highlight why prevention matters, and how powerful lived experience can be in shaping safer futures.

You can watch David’s story in full, or explore each part below:

Watch the Full Story

Watch in Parts

Part 1 - What Happened

David describes the night of the incident and the moment everything changed.

Part 2 – The Aftermath

He shares what came next—hospital, recovery, and the emotional toll of surviving a knife attack.

Part 3 - Court

David reflects on the legal process, court experience, and the realities of seeking justice.

Part 4 – The Impact

The long-term consequences: on his mental health, relationships, daily life, and community.

David’s story is a powerful tool for education, empathy, and change. Whether you're a young person, a parent, educator, or professional, we encourage you to watch and reflect.

Please note: This content includes references to violent trauma and may be triggering for some viewers. If you need support, visit our Support & Resources page