A powerful short film created by young people in Hertfordshire, titled "And I Was Thinking...", has been shortlisted for two national awards in the Creativepool People’s Choice Awards: Animation and Social Good. The animation aims to start honest conversations about the dangers and consequences of carrying knives, and local residents are urged to watch and vote for it before the poll closes on July 16, 2026.
Film Creation and Purpose
The animation was designed alongside the Hertfordshire Youth Commission, a group that gives young people a voice in policing and community safety. It was created during the visit of the Knife Angel sculpture to the county, an initiative to address safety and trust in policing. Organisers hope the film will reach more teenagers and help them discuss the difficult choices they face.
Recognition and Voting
The project has been nominated in the Animation and Social Good categories of the Creativepool People’s Choice Awards. Supporters can vote online to help the campaign gain national recognition and reach a wider audience. The public has until the end of Thursday, July 16, 2026, to cast their votes on the awards website.
Official Praise
Jonathan Ash-Edwards, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, praised the creativity and passion of the young people involved. He said: “This film tackles a difficult issue in a powerful and thought-provoking way. The young people involved were passionate about raising awareness of knife crime and challenging the attitudes that can lead to violence, and that passion shines through in every second of the animation. What makes the project so special is that it has been created by young people, for young people. It has the potential to start important conversations, challenge perceptions and help prevent future harm. I’m incredibly proud to see their work recognised nationally and I hope residents across Hertfordshire will take a moment to watch the film, share it and vote. Every vote helps shine a spotlight on a message that could make a real difference.”
How to Watch and Vote
To watch the film and cast your vote, you can visit: www.creativepool.com/annual/2026/shortlist or view the full project at www.creativepool.com/mike-choo/projects/and-i-was-thinking-knife-crime-prevention-animation-for-leaders-unlocked-hertfordshire-police-and-crime-commissioner.
