SOUTHWICK RESIDENTS CALLED UPON TO GIVE VIEWS ON POLICING AND CRIME
Following the launch of the new Police and Crime Plan, Kim McGuinness, the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, is now seeking views from local residents in Southwick as part of her ongoing commitment to support local communities.
The Commissioner is inviting residents of Southwick to have their views heard and tell her how they feel policing resources could be best utilised in the area.
Residents are also invited to put their views to the Commissioner in person, as she invites them to join her alongside Northumbria Police and the locally funded SARA project, on the 25th March via a virtual community event.
Calling on residents to give their views, Kim said: “Communities are at the heart of everything we do – we know the impact a strong, connected community can have, and that is why I want to hear what more we can do to support you.
“As lockdown eases, there are going to be challenges for all of us – this is where local, easy to access services are crucial – and we’ve already started doing this through the SARA project, enabled by funding from my Violence Reduction Unit.
“I want to know how you think we can best fight crime, prevent crime and improve lives in Southwick – your responses to my survey will go a long way to developing our future strategies and plans.”
During the Commissioners recent Police and Crime Plan consultation, local residents highlighted anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving as the two areas they would like to see Northumbria Police prioritise over the next 4 years.
Southwick Ward Councillor Alex Samuels praised the engagement initiative, and encouraged residents to have their voices heard. Cllr Samuels said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Southwick residents to have their say and lead to real change on the important matters of policing and crime.
“Previously residents said they wanted more local services and for them be more accessible, and this has been delivered through the SARA project supported by the Commissioner’s office – a clear example of where a community voice has led to change.
“I encourage all Southwick residents to get involved, complete the survey and take the Commissioner up on her offer of a community event – let’s show how proud of our area we are, and get the best outcomes for all residents.”
Residents can give their views and have their say via an online survey – https://bit.ly/SouthwickPCCSurvey21 – which is open until Wednesday 24th March.
