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Published:
May 29, 2007
Burnham area police chief discusses new
crime-fighting initiative
 Superintendent
Gary Davies, the Deputy District Commander for the police area
of Somerset West which covers Burnham-On-Sea, has this week launched
a
new initiative to tackling crime in the area.
Here,
he answers questions about the new approach, which is aimed at
creating 'safer, stronger neighbourhoods'.
What
is the 'Safer, Stronger Neighbourhoods' initiative you are launching?
"Safer,
Stronger Neighbourhoods is a new approach to reducing crime and
the fear of crime, which is being launched across the country
as part of the Neighbourhood Policing programme."
"Whilst
crime has reduced in many areas people don't feel as safe as they
should. I believe this new approach will help people feel more
confident about the area they live in and seeing our patrols will
further reassure them. It is also about finding local solutions
to local problems through working more closely with partner agencies
and communities themselves."
Why
is this new approach being introduced?
"The
way we work to reduce crime in your neighbourhood is changing.
We recognise that you want more say in the issues the police deal
with and how. I am aware that if we are going to make your neighbourhood
safer and stronger, your help is vital."
How
will it affect Burnham-On-Sea and the area we live in?
"You
will have a dedicated Neighbourhood Team comprising of Police
Officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and Special
Constables (volunteers). Your Neighbourhood Team is dedicated
to making your community stronger and safer. I want you to see
someone patrolling your area on foot or on a cycle, someone you
will recognise, get to know and feel confident about approaching
them."
"I
want you and those who represent you, such as councillors to have
greater influence over policing your area. We will invite you
to have your say more often than before."
When
is the new initiative happening?
"It
is starting to happen now but will be officially launched in April
2008. However, our neighbourhood teams are in place and over the
coming weeks you will start to hear more about them. We will begin
publicising details of your team in the very near future."
How
can people in the Burnham area get involved?
"Please
support us by taking the time to speak to us about community concerns,
their causes, and possible solutions. It is only by all working
together that we can really make a difference. As part of our
efforts to work more closely with partner agencies and communities,
we will be holding regular meetings in your area which you are
welcome to attend. You
could also join your Local Action Team or Neighbourhood Watch."
How
can people in Burnham contact their Neighbourhood Team?
"To
find out about opportunities to meet your Neighbourhood Team and
ways of contacting them, call 0845 456 7000 and ask to speak to
your team."
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