PRESS RELEASE

WITH the cost-of-living crisis escalating and crime continuing to evolve, Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness is keen to hear the views of local people to help refresh her plans to keep fighting and preventing crime across the North East.

The PCC’s Police and Crime plan is based on people’s views, feelings and experiences of crime across Northumberland Tyne and Wear, which they can share through the survey HERE.

Last year’s plan focused on fighting poverty and fighting crime, as the Commissioner believes the two social injustices go hand and in hand. Her approach and priorities were met with overwhelming support across the region.

In fact, this was the first plan in the country to recognise that we will never beat crime with just a strong police force and more boots on the ground. From jobs to youth services to better transport, Kim strongly believes there are so many other issues we need to look at in order to keep people out of criminality and improve lives.

With rising inflation and what the PCC describes as ‘insufficient’ Government funding for the region, Northumbria Police is facing cuts of more than £11million in the next year, meaning difficult decisions lie ahead.

This, she said, makes it more important than ever that the force has the right priorities in place: “From families to policing; everywhere is feeling the pinch right now and our region always seems to fair the worst. Well, I am passionate about our region I want to make sure it’s a safe one and that it’s a place where people thrive.

“So with budgets so tight, we need to really carefully consider our policing priorities and make sure they are right and that we are listening to real people and real concerns. We can then deliver the improvements people want to see.

“We all want to see more officers on the streets, fighting crime and responding to emergencies and we are making this happen as best we can with the finances and resources we’ve got. From knife crime to antisocial behaviour to domestic abuse, I want to hear your concerns to help put plans into action. The more people’s insight we get through this survey, the better.

She continued: “Fighting crime is and still will be the number one priority for myself and Northumbria Police but we have to get ahead of it and prevent crime from happening in the first place. It’s about the future of our region. Too many of our children grow up in poverty, too many kids don’t get the support they need as they’re growing up, and too often that means they store up problems that play out in adult life and in some cases, lead to crime. We have to tackle the root causes to beat this.

“If we reduce poverty we reduce crime and this benefits everyone, regardless of your income or your postcode. Not to mention the ever-growing demands and pressures on our hard-working police force. We have to get this right and I want your help. Together, we can improve lives for the people of the North East.”

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NORTHUMBRIA POLICE’s Operation Cloak has been praised in parliament, as the force continues to lead the way with efforts to keep people safe when enjoying a night out in Newcastle.

In a debate at the House of Commons on women’s safety on Wednesday (11, January) Sarah Jones MP, Shadow Mister for Policing and Fire Service, cited police work happening in the North East of England as a positive example of how we protect the vulnerable in the night time economy.

First launched in 2019, with the backing of Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, Operation Cloak sees dedicated officers placed in busy areas or out on patrol across the city. Officers look for signs someone may be vulnerable or in need of help and identify those who may be out to commit offences.

The police-led initiative involves teaming up with Newcastle City Council, licensees, door supervisors, hotel staff and taxi drivers and is part of a city-wide commitment to reassure partygoers and helping them enjoy a night out in a safe and friendly environment.

Highting Northumbria’s proactive policing of the city at night Ms Jones said: “There is good work being done across the country on this. In Northumbria, Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness has placed dedicated officers on patrol in Newcastle’s bustling night-time economy, which I enjoyed when I was at Durham University.”

In the latest round of Safer Streets funding, the Police Commissioner’s office secured nearly £2 million to progress work to make public spaces safer with plans that promised more patrols, more interventions and more education.

PCC Kim McGuinness, who recently joined officers out patrolling in the night time economy, said: “Operation Cloak is one of many measures in place to keep women safe across Tyneside. It’s about protecting those who may be vulnerable on a night out and targeting anyone looking to commit offences. It was a key part of the force’s policing plans over Christmas and a lot of good results came from it. I’m glad the hard work that goes into it is getting the recognition it deserves – and not just from politicians, but other police forces and also the very people it’s designed to help who are out enjoying our nightlife.

“I’m really proud of Northumbria Police’s work on this but real change can’t just be about policing. The bigger picture has to be about educating men and young about respect My office is exploring behaviour change programmes for young men exhibiting inappropriate behaviours – we have lots in the pipeline on this and it will continue to be an ongoing priority.”

PRESS RELEASE

Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness is asking the public to pay on average 83p pence a month extra as Northumbria Police faces the cost of spiralling inflation and rising cost pressures.

In response to budget pressures the Commissioner will oversee the introduction of a new policing model which will see 134 new officers deployed to neighbourhood policing – but substantial changes will have to be made elsewhere in the force.

Inflation and other cost increases mean the force needs to find more than £11.7m in savings.  This figure would rise to £15.8m if the public do not back a rise in the precept.

Despite these financial concerns, the Commissioner has insisted that a new neighbourhood policing approach to tackle anti-social behaviour will be safeguarded from the cuts as far as possible. This will involve deploying more officers into frontline policing to help maintain a visible police presence in local communities.

A proposed precept rise would see a Band A property – the average council tax band home in the region – pay 83p a month.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said “The Government should be fully funding policing, but instead they’re asking local taxpayers to cover the costs instead and are asking more and more of them.

“Even the full precept rise won’t fully cover what Northumbria Police needs but we are planning around this with a restructure that would see the force allocate 134 new officers into specialist frontline policing to take on the fight against crime.”

Plans would focus on patrols in hot spot areas, proactive ASB reduction plans and further disruption of organised crime groups. This potential restructure has been prompted by an unprecedented combination of high inflation, government austerity and rising pay bills.

Although the PCC believes it is ‘wholly inappropriate’ to keep increasing the cost burden on the taxpayer, she fears there is little choice when it comes to people’s safety and so a new public consultation on the precept and policing priorities asks:

Commenting further Kim McGuinness, said: “The Government seems in denial about the dire situation of police funding, particularly in the North East. They seem intent on passing the police bill onto the local tax payer.

“Northumbria Police is up against significant financial pressure and needs investment as inflation continues.”

Earlier this month, with concerns mounting about police finances, Kim teamed up with PCCs and Mayors up and down the country to call on the Home Secretary for urgent action to save our police forces and prevent them from being forced to make difficult decisions, but the Commissioner is yet to receive a reply.

The PCC had previously asked the public to pay an extra 56p a month, but the Government has said forces must now consider a £15 a year hike in order to offset the cost of inflation.

To give your feedback on the police precept and your priorities for 2023, please complete the survey here: https://bit.ly/NbriaPCP23 or call 0191 221 9800 for any assistance.

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With more than 2000 champions already active in the region, Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness is now calling for more businesses to join the fight against Domestic Abuse.

Supporting those affected by domestic abuse can often start in the workplace, and with that in mind, Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness wants more businesses to take part in free training delivered by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit and to join its dedicated network of champions.

Over the last few years, the workplace has changed significantly with more people working from home, but for those affected by domestic abuse, it provides a lack of escape from the harm they face. That’s why it’s so important for employers to ensure support is always readily available.

Earlier this year, Government issued further guidance which meant businesses must now consider the impact of domestic abuse, such as a drop in work attendance and productivity, as part of their wider duty of care for their employees.

This training can help staff to understand and spot the signs of domestic abuse, support someone who has disclosed abuse as well as signposting them to dedicated services who are on hand to offer crucial help and support.

With more than 2000 champions already active in the region, and the Violence Reduction Unit having released its 2023 training dates, now is your chance to get involved and play your part in ending domestic abuse.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness said: “Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment and for some staff, the workplace can be their only safe haven from domestic abuse. But, we know that in recent years, there has been a huge change in the way many of us work, such as spending more time at home – a place that should feel safe but isn’t for those experiencing abuse. That’s why I’m calling for more businesses to get in touch with the Violence Reduction Unit and get their staff signed up to this vital training. There is so much that can be put in place to support staff even when they are not in the workplace”

She added: “From spotting something that doesn’t sit right to supporting a colleague who has disclosed abuse, this training and support network can make such a difference to those who need it”.

Having already taken part in the training along with other members of his team, Daniel Errington-Barnes from Eldon Square in Newcastle said: “It’s a fantastic scheme which helps you feel fully equipped to deal with a potential domestic abuse situation and most importantly, how to help that person out. You are kept up to date regularly and it is a free service – one that when the time comes, you will be very grateful to be part of. It has heightened my awareness and enabled me to be constantly on the lookout for any signs”.

For more information or to take part in the training, please contact the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit by email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk

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Links below to book 2023 DA Champions training:

Stage 1 (online): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workplace-domestic-abuse-champions-training-stage-1-tickets-491832523317

Stage 1 (In Person): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workplace-domestic-abuse-champions-training-stage-1-tickets-491881399507

Stage 2 (Online): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workplace-domestic-abuse-champions-training-stage-2-tickets-491927948737

Stage 2 (In Person): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workplace-domestic-abuse-champions-training-stage-2-tickets-491943926527

A dedicated festive operation aimed at tackling disorder in Sunderland city centre saw Christmas crime rates drop by 37 per cent.

From November 17 to December 24, officers teamed up with Sunderland City Council, Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID) and The Bridges shopping centre as part of a multi-agency crackdown on criminality.

Operation Kraken – ran by police with partners – involved uniformed and plain-clothed officers carrying out dedicated patrols to detect and disrupt crime.

Led by Sergeant Maria Ord and the city centre Neighbourhood Policing Team, the targeted approach was launched to ensure Sunderland remained a safe city in the festive run-up for residents, shoppers and businesses.

And the latest results speak for themselves – with reports of crime down by 37 per cent overall in comparison to the same dates in the previous year. This also saw prominent offences such as burglary down by 71 per cent and violent crimes down by 30 per cent.

Other activity led to officers and partners stopping more than 160 people, as well as making 10 arrests and issuing 44 dispersal notices.

Operation Kraken forms part of a wider ongoing collaboration between police and partners – including the recent launch of the Sunderland Altogether Improving Lives (SAIL) project.

Sgt Ord, of Northumbria Police, said the drop in reports are thanks to the dedicated activity and continued teamwork between all agencies.

She said: “In recent years, we have enjoyed some fantastic results through our dedicated Christmas operation which has led to a significant reduction in city centre crime, including anti-social behaviour.

“And the festive run-up in 2022 was no different which saw a massive 37 per cent drop in crime rates overall from the previous year.

“These brilliant results are testament to the hard work of our officers and partners to crackdown on criminality in the area, so everyone could enjoy the city centre during the festive period, hassle-free.

“Please know that our work is never done – and anyone who comes into Sunderland with the intention of causing trouble or committing crime can expect to be dealt with robustly.

“This type of operation is only possible through fantastic teamwork and dedication from all agencies involved, so I’d like to extend my thanks to them for their continued support.”

Councillor Graeme Miller, Leader of Sunderland City Council and Chair of the Safer Sunderland Partnership, said: “We know from our recent residents’ survey, the importance that our residents place on tackling anti-social behaviour.

“Past experience has shown us just how effective joint operations like this can be, the 37 per cent drop in crime rates compared to the same period last year speaks for itself in terms of the operation’s success.

“We’ve continued to build on this partnership approach with the recent launch of the city centre SAIL project (Sunderland Altogether Improving Lives) which brings together the expertise of partner agencies under one roof with the aim of making the city centre a more attractive and safer place to visit.”

Kirstie Currie, Operations Manager at Sunderland BID, said: “It’s fantastic news to see that once again Operation Kraken has had real results and has shown criminals that we simply won’t tolerate anti-social behaviour of any kind at Christmas or any other time of year.

“It’s a positive response to a partnership which continues to go from strength to strength.”

Karen Eve, Centre Director at The Bridges, said: “The Bridges is delighted to once again have played a really active role in ensuring the city centre is a safe and welcoming place to shop in the run-up to Christmas and throughout the year.

“Working with both the Police and the BID shows that we can get really positive results and to see the substantial drop in crime figures is really heartening and confirms that working in partnership can create real results.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “These results from our Neighbourhood Policing Team in Sunderland are a great start to the new year and set out how we mean to go on fighting crime in the area.

“A 37 per cent fall in crime rates is already being hugely welcomed by local people. The arrests and dispersal orders make it clear to would be offenders that Northumbria Police and everyone coming together on this are geared up and ready to take action and keep driving crime down. My thanks go to all involved in these continued efforts to improve lives in the area.”

If you see anything suspicious in your community, always report it to police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on our website or by calling 101. In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.

You can also stay up to date on the latest news in your area through Northumbria Connected – sign up on the website.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness is urging those who are worried about someone’s relationship not to turn a blind eye and to call Findaway for advice.

Sunderland-based charity Wearside Women in Need has set-up the Findaway project this year specifically to help concerned mums, dads, friends and colleagues – as research has revealed 62 per cent of survivors tell a friend or family member about the abuse before telling anyone else.

For many, Christmas is about spending more time with family and friends, meaning abusive relationships sometimes come to light during this time. Others, however, are stopped from seeing their families at all, which can be another red flag for concerned relatives.

Historically, domestic abuse rates rise during the festive period and experts fear this year numbers will be made even worse, as situations are impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.

If alarm bells are ringing, it’s vital those who people turn to for support have access to support themselves, says Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner who is backing the innovative project, along with her Violence Reduction Unit.

Findaway is there to equip family members and friends with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed so they can support loved ones who choose to confide in them.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said: “We all know someone affected by domestic abuse – and importantly, we can all help. So, my message to people is to keep a look out for it. And if there are things that worry you, Findaway is there to help you too.

“It’s a unique service in that it’s there to support the people around the victim and by doing so we hope that help soon reaches the victim too. We are very lucky to have such a ground-breaking, dedicated service like this in the North East and I’m proud that our region is recognising this need and is leading the way.

“If you’re a worried mum, dad, sister, whatever, – members of the team at Findaway are just on the other end of the phone. They’re there to listen to you, and to provide you with information, understanding and options, so you can decide how best to support the person you’re worried about. It’s anonymous; it’s confidential. People often say they worry about the repercussions – and they don’t want to make things worse. Well, this helpline aims to take that worry away and support the supporter. I want to thank Findaway for bringing this idea to life – this is a crucial way of reaching victims with the help they need.”

Findaway Project Co-ordinator Ciara Barrett Smith, said: “We know that people who are in controlling and potentially dangerous relationships usually tell their families and friends before they ask for help from specialist services. We believe that you, as families, friends and community members, are best placed to offer support and have an important role to play in helping people subjected to abuse. We also recognise that you may need support, information and other tools to effectively help the people you care about. We want to work with you to make this happen. Together we can find a way.”

If you’re worried someone you know is being controlled, scared, or hurt by their partner, ex-partner, or family member – you can speak to a trained advisor on 0300 140 0061.

During the festive period, the Findaway anonymous phoneline will be running on reduced hours. However, if we’re unable to answer straight away please leave a voicemail and a member of the team be able to call you back at a time convenient to you (including evenings and weekends).

You can also visit the Findaway website for more information on red flags and how to support someone you’re worried about: www.wefindaway.org.uk

If you feel you may be on the wrong path and want support around your behaviour you can contact the national helpline Respect 0808 802 4040 (Monday to Friday 9am-8pm).

Anyone who is victim of abuse can contact police via the ‘Report an incident’ page on our website or by calling 101. If you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

You can also find out more information on our website – just search ‘Domestic Abuse Northumbria Police’.

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