Paul Brannan, Head of Service (Safer Communities) and Inspector Andrew Norton will update the North East Area Council with regard to the Safer Neighbourhood Service, giving an outline of the locality ‘offer’ and the best way to access services
Minutes:
Paul Brannan, Head of Service (Safer Communities) and Neighbourhoods Inspector Andrew Norton updated the North East Area Council with regard to the Safer Neighbourhood Service, giving an outline of the locality ‘offer’ and the best way to access services.
It was highlighted that the new structure comprises 4 area based teams delivering a 7 day service. Each locality team will have a Team Leader, 2 Community Safety Officers, a sergeant, 4 Police inspectors and a maximum of 16 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). It was highlighted that there are fewer police officers in the new structure but that the approach will be more targeted than previously, with results closely monitored.
The new approach will reduce the risk to vulnerable people, increase safeguarding and reduce demand on the area team. Members were provided with full contact details. It was explained that close work with Berneslai Homes is crucial to the success of the project as this will help to address homelessness and other housing issues in the localities.
Members expressed concerns around the effectiveness of the current 101 service. It was felt that the online reporting service was difficult to use and should be simplified and made more ‘user friendly’ to encourage uptake. These comments will be fed back to the appropriate bodies. Members also queried whether there had been an increase in central hub planning enforcement activity, as there is a high level of demand for this service, with 145 live cases at the last count. It was explained that there may be additional capacity for this service from April 2018.
RESOLVED: that Paul Brannan and Inspector Andrew Norton be thanked for their attendance and contribution and that thanks also be expressed to Police Sergeant Brad Wynne who has now moved to a new post in Kendray.