Visible and Accessible Policing Across Shropshire and Telford

Communities across Shropshire and Telford will have improved access to the police, as a mobile police station tours key locations throughout the county.

The initiative will see Safer Neighbourhood Teams going right into the heart of local communities, giving local residents the opportunity to come and speak to police.

The West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed the scheme, which makes officers more visible and accessible whilst improving their connections with communities, as they listen to and act upon local concerns.

The scheme is part of a wider programme of work, to build relationships with local communities, including the roll out of mobile technology which has allowed each officer to spend an extra hour, on average per shift, out in the community.

Commissioner John Campion said “Our communities want a police force that is visible, so they feel reassured and accessible so they get the help they need as and when they need it. It is important we deliver this. Through schemes like this and the investment in technology, I am delivering on this promise and ensuring that the police can build their connection with communities and address the needs of victims of crime. I made a commitment to protecting frontline policing, and I welcome initiatives like this which make our communities be safer and feel safer.”

Chief Superintendent Kevin Purcell said: “Our safer neighbourhood teams play a vital role in our communities and it is really important they are out and about speaking to local residents and listening to their concerns.

“The mobile police station provides the perfect opportunity for them to do that and I would urge anyone who sees the station while it is on tour to stop and say hello to the officers.

West Mercia Police recently launched a campaign to promote local safer neighbourhood teams, letting members of the public know who their safer neighbourhood officer is.

The campaign also provided mobile numbers of officers, making it even easier for members of the community to get in contact.

Ch Supt Purcell added: “We are constantly looking at ways we can improve the services we provide and I hope members of the public will feel reassured we are doing all we can to make sure we are accessible to them.”

To view a video outlining a similar recent scheme in Worcestershire, click here.

Issued: Wednesday 6th June 2018