Carrying a kitchen knife on your person in the UK, even if you do not intend to use it on anyone else and only use it on yourself, can still lead to legal consequences.
In the UK, it is an offense to carry certain types of knives or bladed instruments in public without a valid reason. The law is outlined in the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and the Offensive Weapons Act 2019. The definition of a "knife" under UK law is broad and includes many types of bladed instruments, not just kitchen knives.
Carrying a knife in public without a reasonable excuse can result in arrest, prosecution, and potential conviction. "Reasonable excuse" might include using the knife for work purposes (e.g., a chef transporting their knives to and from work) or other legitimate reasons.
The intention behind carrying the knife, even if it is for self-harm purposes, is not necessarily considered a reasonable excuse under the law. If you are found to be carrying a knife in public, the police may investigate the circumstances, and it is possible that you could face legal consequences.
If you are struggling with self-harm or any emotional distress, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional or a support helpline. There are resources available to provide you with the assistance you need to address your concerns and well-being in a healthy and safe manner.