Charlie's Promise

Charlie’s Promise was created in memory of my 17-year-old son, Charlie Cosser, a bright, kind and funny young man whose life was tragically taken by knife violence in July 2023.

As Charlie lay fighting for his life, I made him a promise: that I would spend the rest of my life educating young people about the dangers and devastating impact of knife crime. That promise became my purpose.

As a family, we are determined that Charlie’s death will not be in vain, and that no other family should have to experience the pain and devastation we live with every day. Everything we do is driven by our love for Charlie and our commitment to protecting others.

Our charity works to educate and empower young people about the realities and consequences of knife crime, challenge perceptions, and provide safer alternatives. Since launching in 2024, we have spoken to more than 100,000 young people across the UK through school talks, community events and partnerships. We work alongside schools, communities and organisations to influence change at every level. Charlie’s Promise is about turning loss into purpose, creating hope, saving lives and ensuring Charlie’s legacy makes a lasting difference.

Through a series of presentations, we share Charlie’s story and the profound impact his death has had on his family, friends and the wider community. Drawing on real lived experience, these presentations highlight how one choice can have life-changing consequences and help young people understand both the immediate dangers and the long-term effects of knife crime.

By equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and support to make positive choices, we aim to prevent knife crime before it starts and help create a safer future where every young person can thrive.