KIM MCGUINNESS – Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner – has warned that more and more children from the North East are leaving their home region to pursue county lines work in other parts of the UK.

Her concerns were raised following what PCC McGuinness hailed a robust and successful County Lines Intensification Week for the police force which saw 23 arrests made, as part of tough action to fight crime across the region.

County Lines is a form of criminal exploitation where criminals persuade, coerce and force children and young people to store drugs and money or transport them to other areas.

Recently, children as young as 13 have been caught working as drugs runners for criminals operating within our region, with some even relocating to other parts of the UK where County Lines is a bigger problem and there is more work as ‘drugs runners’ on offer.

Last week a large-scale County Lines clampdown resulted in 23 people arrested and seized more than £20,000 in criminal cash.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “Northumbria Police is pulling out all the stops– the raids, the covert operations, they’re doing it all to get on top of this as a region, but fighting this crime is not a job for our officers alone.

“Drug dealing is a dangerous world and we have to stop our young people getting caught up in a cycle of fear and violence. That’s why youth and outreach workers have such a vital part to play in the solution and it pains me that these services have been cut time and time again by Government.

She continued: “As well as searching for the dealers, the search is on for the children they prey on so we can look after them – they are the victims, not the criminals here. It’s a real concern how we are hearing of more and more children getting embroiled in moving drugs for gangs and they’re ending up all over the country.

“We can’t – and won’t let – the North East become a go-to place fore recruiting and exploiting young people. Youth and outreach workers have to be part of the solution more than ever – it’s a no brainer. My Violence Reduction Unit will keep working closely with organisations like Edge North East who reach out to young people in their time of need; they listen, they work with them and help ensure they’re safe. Whatever mess victims find themselves in, with the right support they can get out of it and out of a life of crime.”

Collette Devlin-Smith, from Edge North East, said they had seen an increase in young people becoming involved County Lines over the past few years, not helped by lockdown increasing young people’s vulnerability.

She said: “It’s a big problem you know. Young people often don’t see themselves as victims. They can be completely brainwashed. It’s grooming. There are kids going missing from home and from care all the time. It’s like they get sucked it – more drugs, more rewards, maybe they feel pressured to rise through the ranks of the gangs to survive. But it’s happening to children from our region – we have victims right here on our doorstep – and we often end up finding them far away, far from home. Without support and a place to turn to, to trust for help to get out, it’s frightening to think where they might end up.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Aelfwynn Sampson, who runs Northumbria Police’s Crime department said:

“The ripple effects of this type of criminality are far reaching and can have a significant impact on those involved as well as those living in the communities we serve.

“County Lines is an aggressive, often violent method of drug dealing which relies heavily on the exploitation of the vulnerable and young people, with many of them unaware of what is even happening to them. And this is completely unacceptable.

“As a Force, we are working hard to ensure this appalling practice does not take a hold in our region.

“As well as taking part in national intensification periods, we regularly carry out a range of activity as part of Operation Sentinel which includes targeted strikes and arrests aimed at shutting down the deal lines and pursuing offenders, to working with our partners to ensure vulnerable victims are identified and safeguarded.

“We would ask the public, especially parents, to work with us and report any concerns to help us put a stop to this despicable method of drug dealing.”

RECKLESS riders would have nowhere to go if all motorbikes were fitted with a tracker device, says Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, as she calls on Government to urgently introduce new bike laws.

The Commissioner who is working closely with the Chief Constable to tackle residents’ concerns of bike-related antisocial behaviour has said the issue will remain a top priority for the force.

As part of an ongoing crackdown on this type of crime throughout the region, Kim is urging Policing Minister Kit Malthouse to give the green light to allow for tracker devices to be fitted to all motorbikes so their whereabouts and speed can be monitored – a move to deter would-be criminals.

Ms McGuinness believes the trackers would be an impactful tool in the fight against bike crime, would prevent thefts and anti-social behaviour and in turn improve the lives of local people.

A tough range of policing measures are already underway and will be built upon as we head into the summer months. Tactics include hotspot patrols, garage checks, underage petrol test purchases and educational campaigns.

Kim McGuinness, said: “I’m hearing from residents that reckless riding is happening far too often and it’s happening in our parks and residential streets – the very places where people are enjoying walks and families are playing. These are things people should be able to do safely – they shouldn’t have to worry about off-road bikes speeding by and ramping up pavements.”

Officers have been listening to all concerns raised, collating intelligence of where disorder on bikes has been taking place and targeting these areas with a range of tactics.

Kim continued: “This is all part of a big operation happening in response to these concerns and I have requested regular updates from the Chief as it’s something I’ll be keeping a close eye on.

“There have been some positive results lately but I want us to be able to do more. We need to think differently if we are going to put a stop to the problem once and for all and this is where trackers could come in. Our police are confident they could make a real difference.

“It’s important for me to be clear” she added.  “I don’t mean our law-abiding bikers here – I’m talking about trouble-makers, often young people riding un-roadworthy bikes, which in some cases have been stolen.  It’s their own safety that is at risk here too – worryingly there’s a real lack of awareness of the consequences. A tough approach needs to be taken and I fully back our force with this, especially when engagement and education isn’t getting through to those responsible.

“But what I really want is to go a step further and I believe trackers would be a real deterrent. There is a growing sense of momentum in our region to put a stop to this problem. I want to build on this and think Government support to make trackers a real possibility would be a good place to start.”

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, said: “This type of anti-social behaviour continues to be a real concern for us in South Tyneside where we have seen these off-road bikes being ridden recklessly through our residential areas and churning up our green spaces.

“This not only affects the quality of life for our residents, but there is a danger that someone will get hurt, whether that is a member of the public or the rider themselves.

“Our parks and open spaces have proven to be valuable places for people to get their exercise over a very challenging year and we want them to be safe sites to visit. Any extra measures that can be put in place to tackle the issue of nuisance bikers would be greatly welcomed.”

If you want to send pictures, video or intelligence to the task-force then you can do so by emailing operationbenelli@northumbria.pnn.police.uk.

You can also call 101 and asking to speak to the Operation Benelli team or your local Neighbourhood Team or report information online at the Northumbria Police website.”

ENDS

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 25^th 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 24^th March.

Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness is on the lookout for dog-loving volunteers to help ensure police and fire service dogs are being treated correctly.

Volunteers will make unannounced visits to kennels to observe, comment and report on the conditions that Northumbria Police and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service dogs are housed. They’ll also view outdoor dog training sessions.

It’s part of Kim McGuinness’ new Police Dog Welfare Scheme which will check the welfare of dogs in Northumbria Police and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

Kim said: “Police dogs are a hugely valuable part of our police family here in Northumbria, communities know the value they bring to policing and the fire service and the support they give to police officers and fire fighters.

“My role as Police and Crime Commissioner is to hold Northumbria Police to account on behalf of the public and ensure all of their departments are performing to a high standard, including the police dogs. As we work closely with the Fire Service, we have been able to extend the welfare checks to the fire service dogs.

“The welfare of our dogs is of paramount importance and it’s important that we have independent checks in place to ensure animal welfare standards are robustly maintained. The Dog Welfare Visitors will act as ‘critical friends’ providing me with independent and invaluable feedback to ensure our dogs are properly cared for, happy and their working conditions are acceptable.

“I know there will be many local residents with the experience of animal welfare to support this exciting scheme. Our Dog Welfare Visiting Scheme has been established with advice from the brilliant Dogs Trust. The visitors will make a real difference, their feedback will deliver change.”

Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police’s Operations Department, said: “The welfare of our police dogs is of paramount importance to us and we work every day to ensure they are looked after.

“They dedicate the majority of their lives to keeping the public safe and have a special bond with their handlers that goes beyond that of just a family pet.
“But we welcome opportunities to have our working practices scrutinised so we can make sure we continue to ensure every animal in our care is being looked after to the highest standards.”

Group Manager Andy Lillford, Head of Resilience at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our search and rescue dog is a vital member of the team and a true asset to the Service. They help to protect and keep our communities safe, and are trained to work in the most arduous conditions including under collapsed buildings, in confined spaces and working at heights.

“The welfare arrangements of both the animal and the dog handler is of great importance with the handler being highly trained in all areas of dog welfare and animal first aid.

“The working relationship between our search and rescue dog and its handler is second to none. They know each other’s traits, skills and limitations. Our team at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service look forward to playing a key role in the new Police Dog Welfare Scheme and making it a success.”

Interested? Want to know more? Drop us an email with your CV and a few paragraphs about what experience you can bring to the role. Let’s start a conversation and by working together we will make a difference. Email us at enquiries@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk and we’ll be in touch.
Closing date for expressions of interest is 30th April 2021.

Note:
To apply for this volunteer role, you must be over 18 and live or work within the Northumbria Police Force Area. You will need to have access to a car as the kennels are located in shared premises in Durham. All successful applicants will need to undertake vetting clearance.

ENDS

A JUNIOR football club, a community centre and a youth group are just some of the grass root initiatives celebrating news this week that they will receive a share of a £350,000 pot of cash – recovered from criminals in the North East.

The funding initiative, called Operation Payback, was set up by Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness. Its aim is simple – to put money recovered from drug dealers and other criminals back where it belongs – into the heart of local communities.

Many local projects and community groups that strive to improve lives in their area are set to receive a welcome cash boost to help keep making a positive difference in their neighbourhood often repairing the harm caused by crime.

A total of 24 groups are set to benefit from Payback including South Shields FC, Dunston Community Centre and YMCA Northumberland.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “There are some terrific groups who’ve taken it upon themselves to really turn things around in the area where they live. They’ve taken responsibility and they’re making a huge difference. I absolutely want to support them in doing this so we’re turning bad money into good. I want Payback to empower them further and bring their bright ideas to life.”

“A lot of successful bids centred on giving something for young people to get involved with in their spare time, heling prevent crime and anti-social behaviour. You see, local people are the ones who recognise and understand the issues that matter locally. They know how to solve them so we need to listen and help them put their ideas into action.”

Kim added: “I want every young person growing up in our region to have an equal chance of success whatever their circumstances and Payback will help them and their families to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

“These groups do a great deal to make communities safer, prevent crime and reduce re-offending. I can’t think of a better way to reinvest cash from crime than to help steer young people onto a better future.”

YMCA Northumberland will be using their funding to deliver a diversionary youth programme and help prevent young people becoming involved in anti-social behaviour in Ashington.

South Shields FC Foundation will work with the Police and Youth Justice Service to run a project for young people at risk of offending or re-offending.

Steve Camm, manager at the Foundation, said: “This is a really exciting project and we can’t wait to get started. We are grateful for the Police and Crime Commissioner’s support which will enable us to further extend the impact the Club already has in the local community”.

“We’ll be working closely with the Police and Youth Justice Service to identify and engage young people at risk and provide them with positive preventative activities, including football and boxing, with the aim of reducing crime and the impact of crime in our community.”

Dunston Community Centre will be supporting young adults who have been excluded from school, expelled or served community sentences, helping them to become mentors and encourage others to take responsibility for their actions.

Brenda Clelland from the community centre, said: “This funding will help us to really tackle the youth-related anti-social behaviour and petty crime which plagues our neighbourhood by directly addressing the underlying issues, helping the young people to make positive changes and choices which benefit, not damage, our local community.”

In the years to come the fund will be topped up with some of the money seized from criminal activity under the Proceeds of Crime Act (PoCA), with some recovered funds also going to Northumbria Police to help them target more criminals.

For more information about Operation Payback and to view the full list of beneficiaries visit here.

ENDS

BACK TO WORK: Many local organisations are training up Domestic Abuse Workplace Champions ahead of the nation’s return to work – thanks to a virtual roll-out of a scheme from PCC Kim McGuinness’s office

Hopes for lockdown easing and vaccine breakthroughs are leading bosses across the region to start making plans for when the time comes for staff to return to the office. 

Supporting staff with their physical and mental well-being has been high on the priority list for many businesses during lockdown, and based on the rise in reported cases of DA many are now increasing their focus on domestic abuse and are using a reinvigorated scheme run by the Office of the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, to help.

During the pandemic, many frontline and specialist domestic abuse services experienced a rise in demand as stay at home orders trapped survivors in the house, with their abuser.

As of Friday 19^th February, the scheme, which raises awareness of domestic abuse and guides people towards specialist services, has switched to digital delivery. So far, 140 people have signed up, and the course is now fully subscribed until the end of May, with further dates to be scheduled.

Previously the scheme has engaged with more than 300 businesses from throughout the North East, and trained up more than 1,500 champions.

To ensure the training reaches as many people as possible, the office has partnered with the Better Health at Work Award, coordinated by the Northern TUC, to offer the specialist training to the hundreds of employers who are committed to the health and wellbeing of their workforce, including making domestic abuse their business. Companies who have had representatives take part in the online training so far come from a range of sectors including childcare, engineering and across the public sector.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “Really, what we have seen is a pandemic within a pandemic and we have to respond to this. It’s imperative that as many people as possible are clued up when it comes to supporting someone suffering domestic abuse.

“Domestic abuse is very much a hidden crime and lockdowns provide an even more conducive environment to perpetrate these crimes and less opportunity to escape them, so it’s more important than ever that we have this scheme up and running.

“Employers have a duty and responsibility to provide staff with a safe working environment and we know that for some staff the workplace can be the only safe haven from domestic abuse and violence. The impending return of people to work could, for some, be a really crucial moment to get out and get free of their abuser. People working from home can also be in a position to help; perhaps overhearing something being said in the background on a call or being a confidant.”

Beth Farhat, Northern TUC Regional Secretary said: “The rise of Domestic Abuse is a hugely worrying trend so reversing this has to be a priority and the reinvigoration and adaptation of this training and associated networks, communication and support channels is a really significant and practical way to help do that.  

“Workplace health and wellbeing has never been more important and despite the immense challenges of the last year we have seen a wealth of fantastic and proactive practise through our Better Health at Work Award employers. Their overwhelming response to, and participation in, this training is fantastic and indicative of the importance they place on safeguarding their workers’ health, safety and wellbeing. 

“I firmly hope that the training and overarching DA scheme will make a positive impact in organisations, for individuals and ultimately, on the number of victims – if it helps one person, then it has made all the difference.”