ONE arrest and 29 dispersal notices were handed out by undercover Northumbria Police officers riding the ‘Trojan’ bus, when it took to the roads in South Shields for 8 days of action before Christmas.

The bus is part of an operation to drive down antisocial behaviour on and around our public transport. It’s a joint initiative by Northumbria Police, Stagecoach, Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness and other transport network partners.

The bus travels to areas where commuters have reported concerns in relation to ASB which includes vandalism and youth disorder.  It is one response to tackling disorder as part of Operation Teviot.  Police officers travel on board ready to deploy and take robust action against those individuals who are causing trouble. This action may include making arrests or issuing dispersal notices.

Dispersal orders are imposed on an area and enable police to effectively deal with a person who has been involved or suspected to be involved in crime and disorder.  A notice is served which orders them to leave the area with no return within the specified time period.

Parents are warned children between the ages of 10 and 16 who are issued with dispersal notices will be taken home.

Those who refuse to comply with the order are committing a criminal offence and could find themselves arrested.

The orders are one of many tactics used by officers to help prevent crime and disorder in our neighbourhoods.

During the Trojan bus’ first deployment, an arrest and all the dispersal notices issued to youths were in and around North Marine Park and South Shields Interchange.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, said: “The Trojan bus is a decoy bus and is being deployed across the North East to take tough action at anti-social behaviour hotspots. It’s part of my force-wide Safer Transport Northumbria strategy and sees transport officials come together to crackdown on ASB and improve people’s feelings of safety when using public transport throughout the region.

“This initiative shows we are taking on board people’s concerns around ASB and that our police are responding with new tactics and robust action. The plan is to get the bus out often as we can and break up bad behaviour and improve people’s feelings of safety. Officers can’t give too much away but the idea is it could pull up anywhere, anytime – packed with police passengers ready to take action.”

Kim continued: “Bus stops should never be smashed up or vandalised, people should never feel scared and intimidated waiting to get on board. And so, our officers will be catching the bus determined to catch those responsible and put an end to unwelcome trouble and disorder in our communities.”

Chief Superintendent Barrie Joisce, of Northumbria Police, said: “As a Force, we recognise the anti-social behaviour of a minority can have a significant and detrimental impact on the communities we serve.

“The Trojan bus is just one innovative way we are tackling pockets of disorder as it is happening, in a bid to swiftly identify those causing issues in hotspot areas.

“Police officers in plain clothes on buses and the wider transport network gives us an opportunity to identify those behaving in an anti-social or criminal way.

“We’re seeing some great results which I hope will go a long way to help passengers and residents alike to feel safe.

“Together with our partners, we will continue to use every tactic at our disposal to prevent and disrupt crime.

“We would encourage the public to continue to work with us, by reporting any concerns to police using the ‘Report’ page of our website or by calling 101.

“In an emergency, or where a crime is taking place, always dial 999.”

The ‘Trojan bus’ is a multi-agency project with OPCC, Nexus, Metro Unit, Stagecoach, Council CCTV Room, Council business responders and the Council Youth Services. These results are from 8 days of action during October and November 2023. More decoy bus services will be rolled out across the region in the coming months as part of plans to help fight ASB.

ENDS

FOOTBALL fans from across Tyne and Wear put football rivalry and scorelines to one side, to show their support for the region’s Knives Impact Everyone campaign.

Committed to fighting back against knife crime, local charities Samantha’s Legacy and The Connor Brown Trust were invited to the pitch ahead of kick off alongside Northumbria’s Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness and the Violence Reduction Unit, to get their powerful anti-knife message in front of thousands of derby day fans.

As a result of this, the campaign received huge waves of support across social media with fan groups like Newcastle United Supporters Club and the Red and White Army who have proudly given their backing to the knife crime prevention cause.

In what was a moving moment in front of the crowds, the families held up campaign graphics showing emotionally charged phone screen shots of undelivered messages to illustrate heart-breaking reality of knife crime. The hard-hitting campaign also lit up digital advertising stands at the Stadium of Light during Saturday’s FA cup match, with the words “Knife crime cuts deep. Whether you’re carrying a knife or you’re a victim of knife crime, the consequences impact everyone; family, friends, emergency services and communities.”

Police Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “It doesn’t get much bigger for the North East than a Tyne and Wear derby so to give the campaign this platform has felt a really momentous occasion. We’re so proud of football in our region and I’m proud of how the clubs are coming together to highlight how knife crime can impact so many lives. Getting in front of so many to highlight our campaign is a result in itself. I can’t thank the families of Samantha Madgin and Connor Brown enough. As well as the clubs for helping us bring plans to life, and of course the fans for joining us to champion this cause. Historic rivalry aside, hearing the crowds cheer backing this important work is what it’s all about.”

Greg Tomlinson, Chair, Newcastle United Supporters Trust: “There are some things that are more important than black and white or red and white believe it or not and this is one of them. The consequences of knife crime impact everyone, leaving mates without their friends and devastating families and communities. As football supporters, and as a community, we stand together to support this vital work against knife crime.”

Tanya Brown, the mother of knife victim Connor Brown – a football lover and proud Sunderland fan said: “We would like to add how much we appreciate being asked to be involved in this fantastic initiative. This is very close to our hearts as a family, and Connor was very passionate about football, as are many others. This opportunity gives us the ability to highlight the importance of the Knives Impact Everyone campaign in such a big way. We can reach so many more people raising the awareness of Knife Crime and the impact it has on everyone.”

The Knives Impact Everyone campaign was launched in 2023, by Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness and the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, to highlight the devastating consequences carrying a knife can have, as well as sign-posting people to support and advice. As part of this work, Northumbria’s VRU funds projects at both Newcastle United Foundation and the Foundation Light, with the YOLO initiative aimed at steering young people away from knife crime, whilst also creating a range of opportunities and support to help young people make positive life choices away from crime.

Information about the campaign can be found here: Knives Impact Everyone – Northumbria PCC (northumbria-pcc.gov.uk)

CLOSED police stations could be reopened and a force-wide motorbike ASB unit created as Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness calls for people’s views on proposed changes to the part of council tax that pays for local policing.

Two thirds of police stations in England have closed since 2010, with many being in the Northumbria Police force area. With public backing, Kim McGuinness is keen to explore the possibility of reopening any stations where footfall data suggests a local need.

To offset the rising costs facing the force and deliver proposed plans such as boosting frontline police resources and enhancing the force-wide motorbike ASB unit, Kim is asking local people if they would support a slight increase to their police precept.

She said residents repeatedly share concerns about the disappearance of police counters in their local communities seen – a result of over a decade of Government cuts – and has set out funding options that could help bring them back. Funds are also needed to help plug the police funding gap to ensure Northumbria Police continues to have the resources it needs to fight and prevent crime in the region.

• 72p per month increase for a Band A property – could potentially allow the reopening of some police stations following a review of the police estate. It would help boost ongoing efforts to boost officer recruitment, hire more crime investigators to tackle online crime and create a force-wide unit set up to tackle motorbike anti-social behaviour, expanding on a current trial.
• 56p per month increase for a Band A property – could potentially allow the reopening of some stations but the force would still have to make financial savings and investment in specialist frontline policing would not be possible.
• Zero increase – Northumbria Police has not received extra funds to cover the impact of rising bills. If the precept is not increased this would mean a cut of around £4.2m to the force budget, the equivalent of 113 job losses.

Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “A greater police presence is the number one ask of local people – that’s why I put 134 new officers into neighbourhood policing and it’s why I agreed a review of all our police stations to see what we can reopen. If the reviews we are conducting indicate a strong enough case for the reopening of certain stations and it’s what people want, let’s look at reversing the Government imposed closure trend and explore our options for opening station doors once again.”

Kim warned though of the financial challenges facing austerity-hit policing. She said: “The funds raised through the precept help us keep the wheels on as we keep fighting crime in the shadow of austerity. There are still stark financial pressures facing the force, totalling more than £7m, due to inflation and other rising costs in the years ahead. If police precept bills are frozen it would mean another £4m of cuts facing the force. It would certainly impact plans to invest further in frontline policing, keep more stations open longer and develop specialist crime units.

“Asking local council taxpayers to help fund our policing is a tough ask – household finances are tight enough for so many as it is. I firmly believe Central Government should provide the funds that would prevent putting them onto the public like this.

“But it’s the only way we can afford to deliver the things residents want to see if we aren’t given sufficient Government funding – so be it – I am having to ask. In recent years, along with the Chief Constables, we have worked hard to rebuild the frontline improve response ties, invest in technology like drones in the skies and establish specialist units to tackle crime like motorbike disorder. This has all been possible with public backing before and I don’t want this progress to fight crime in our region to stop.”

Every part of the country relies on funding gathered through Council Tax payments to support their local police force. Northumbria Police is one of the forces hardest hit by the effects of Government austerity and on-going financial cost pressures, while having one of the lowest precept rates in the country. The force has lost more than 1,100 officers and £148m from its budget in the years since 2010.

Over the Christmas period the force has trialled extending opening in rural areas and reopened one station. The Commissioner would like to authorise a wider review of all stations early in 2024 and reopen some of those that were closed under Government austerity.

Local residents within the Northumbria Police force area can have their say by answering two short questions here https://bit.ly/NbriaPol24. The survey will be open until Monday 22^nd January 2024.

Funding gained through the police precept will help us to maintain the just, safe, and inclusive police service we need. Without this support, we fill face severe pressure on the police budget.

ENDS

Newcastle United Foundation and Sunderland AFC’s Foundation of Light have joined forces to promote the Knives Impact Everyone campaign launched by Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness and local families who have lost loved ones to violence.

Newcastle United and Sunderland AFC, alongside their registered charities will be championing the impactful campaign across their social media channels, whilst hard-hitting messages will also feature on digital advertising stands at the Stadium of Light during the upcoming FA Cup derby match.

The Knives Impact Everyone campaign was launched in 2023, by Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness and the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, to highlight the devastating consequences carrying a knife can have, as well as sign-posting people to support and advice. As part of this work, Northumbria Police fund projects at both Newcastle United Foundation and the Foundation Light, with the YOLO initiative aimed at steering young people away from knife crime, whilst also creating a range of opportunities and support to help young people make positive life choices away from crime.

Through a range of emotionally charged graphics, undelivered messages show the heart-breaking reality of knife crime along with the words: “Knife crime cuts deep. Whether you’re carrying or you’re a victim of knife crime, the consequences impact everyone; family, friends, emergency services and communities.”

Backing the campaign, former Sunderland AFC Striker Kevin Phillips said: “Whatever your background, whatever your club, we have to unite on this so young people walk away from violence. We need to get in front of kids about the dangers and consequences of knives and we are supporting this campaign to do just that.”

Newcastle United Foundation Trustee and former player, Shola Ameobi, said: “Football is so powerful in this part of the world, and it means so much to people of all ages. Football can influence behaviour in young people and inspire them in so many different ways. I’ve seen first-hand for years the work that Newcastle United Foundation does in the community to make positive changes to the lives of those who need guidance and support. The power of the Newcastle United badge is really special to making a positive difference. The YOLO project alongside the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit is made a significant impact to so many young people in the region and it is great to see the work continuing.”

Kim McGuinness said: “Our football clubs are at the heart of so much that is good about the North East, and it is great to see them setting aside rivalry off the pitch to come together and stand up to knife crime. We’re all proud of region, and this is a strong message that we, the clubs, the fans, the families, are determined to keep it a great place to live.”

The campaign was developed alongside school children from across the region, with the aim of making young people think before picking up a knife, by understanding the impact and consequences of their actions.

Upon launching the campaign, it received widespread support and was backed by Northumbria Police as well as Samantha’s Legacy and The Connor Brown Trust, who have sadly experienced the devastating consequences of knife crime first hand.

Through the popular 20-week YOLO programme delivered in both Foundations, young people are provided with a mentor and the chance to take part in one-to-one sessions, and engage in activities such as sport, music, art, social action projects, as well as tailored interventions to support them in making positive behaviour change and address their needs.

UPROAR as Government quietly slashes Northumbria’s Safer Streets funding days before announcing its own plans to tackle spiking.

Commissioner Kim McGuinness has hit out at the hypocrisy of Government for announcing its own plans to tackle spiking – just after taking away £180K of North East funds to tackle that very problem.

In what the Commissioner calls an ‘under the radar reversal’ Home Office officials have announced they are pulling the plug on a third of the funding promised for the Government’s Safer Streets project.

In the Northumbria Police force area, this funds operations dedicated to catching anyone who commits crimes like spiking or preying on vulnerable people in the night-time economy.

The plans, which focus on increased patrols, wardens and CCTV monitoring will now have to be reviewed with considerable cutbacks made.

The Commissioner says it’s too early to say how stripped back activity might look but conversations had started with partners to find the most cost-effective ways to ensure key work is able to continue.

Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “Government’s taking £180K from us here in the North East to tackle issues like spiking while shouting about their own crackdown intentions. My office is getting emails about significant funding cuts to work we already have in progress.

“The Home Secretary has said tackling Violence Against Women and Girls is a personal priority and how Government will do what is necessary to keep people safe. Pulling £180,000 of funding to tackle this is certainly not necessary nor is it making something a priority – it’s anything but. They’re trying to pull wool over people’s eyes with this.

“By Government’s own admission, ‘Safer Streets is growing confidence in policing’ – yet it’s slashing our funding to deliver the very work that is making an impact.”

She added: “We are having to have the difficult conversations with partners, with councils about how we can work around the financial damage here. There is a huge backlash locally as this is, yet another Government imposed barrier to us getting on with the job and keeping people safe.

“You can’t quietly slash funding one minute, leaving local projects in the balance, and yet make big claims and promises in the same breath. It’s a betrayal on public safety and a betrayal on those already working to improve women’s safety in public places in the North East.”

END

MEDIA RELEASE

POLICE will be out in force this party season to help make sure the North East remains a safe place for a night out.

The investment in additional police activity comes as a result of Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness’s office securing £422,000 in funding to build on her Women’s Safety in Public Places project.

A mix of uniform and plain-clothed officers will be deployed as part of a brand new operation – Operation Salus – set up to keep party-goers safe.

It will begin in the coming weeks, as the night-time economy gears up for the festive celebrations.

Officers will be using new ways to gather intelligence and keep everyone safe as well as actively seeking to catch anyone they suspect could have the intention of offending or posing a risk to people’s safety.

There will also be a focus on capturing CCTV evidence to ensure anyone who commits crimes like spiking drinks or operating fake taxis is put before the courts.

The new operation comes off the back of Northumbria Police’s highly successful Operation Cloak. This operation sees officers on the lookout for signs of vulnerability so they can step in and help. Last year efforts helped lead to a 30 per cent reduction in rapes and serious assaults in Newcastle City Centre.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “I’ve always said the North East boasts not only some of the best nights out but some of the safest too and this is because our Police and partners are working hard with operations like this – dedicated to preventing crime.

“As well as officers immersing themselves in the night-time economies there will be officers reviewing CCTV – examining behaviours, flagging concerns, and capturing evidence that can be used before the courts.

“I want people to be heading out on their Christmas parties knowing officers are taking these types of crimes very seriously and we are doing everything we can to stop them to keep our region and its people safe.”

Chief Supt Barrie Joisce, from Northumbria Police, said: “The North East is well known for having a welcoming and safe nightlife and is one of the many reasons people are attracted to the region.

“We proactively police the night-time economy and have both uniformed and plain-clothed officers on patrol to protect those who may be vulnerable and target anyone looking to commit offences.

“We also work with a range of partners, including local authorities, businesses, licensees, door supervisors, hotel staff, street pastors and taxi drivers, so we can all come together to help keep people safe.

“When offences do occur we take them extremely seriously and are committed to supporting victims and bringing offenders to justice.

“We are proud of the role we play within the night-time economy and our dedicated approach has been rolled-out elsewhere in the country.

“We are committed to building on this activity to help ensure people can continue to have a safe and enjoyable time while on a night out.”

Police would always encourage anyone who has concerns to speak to an officer or contact them as soon as possible. In an emergency always call 999.

Other measures will help keep women and girls safe as part of the Women’s Safety in Public Places project funded through Safer Streets Round 5. They include:

• WSiPP Wardens Local Authority led intervention where ‘Active Bystander’ trained staff will undertake foot patrols in public places where people have told us the Commissioner’s office, they feel unsafe.
• ‘Lead the Change’ Active Bystander Training Train the Trainer programme for local Change Leaders to train up local community members to understand and address sexism, sexual harassment and threatening behaviours that makes women and girls feel unsafe.
• Engaging men and boys in the development of the #ItAllAddsUp campaign work to highlight harmful attitudes and behaviour that breed VAWG.