Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner has called a multi-agency meeting to address community concerns about crime and disorder in the Hemlington area of Middlesbrough.
The meeting – which was called before Christmas – will take place today (Tuesday 18 January) and will be attended by representatives from Cleveland Police, Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Fire Brigade, the office of Simon Clarke MP, Thirteen Housing and Habinteg Housing Association.
Each agency will be asked to provide the PCC with an update on the work they have been doing to tackle issues Hemlington, an area which has attracted attention in recent months for crime and antisocial behaviour.
Discussions will focus on what the key problems in the area are and what future plans are in place for each organisation to address them.
To inform today’s meeting, the PCC spent time in Hemlington engaging with local businesses about their concerns.
PCC Steve Turner said: “Speaking to business owners and residents in Hemlington, most agreed that antisocial behaviour in the area has worsened of late.
“I know that reducing levels of antisocial behaviour cannot be achieved by one organisation alone, as there are a number of complex factors at play that currently require attention.
“Many of the organisations have their own strategies for Hemlington – it’s my role to pull these agencies together and represent the area’s residents in seeking answers.
“I’m hopeful that this meeting will give me a greater understanding of the work being done by all agencies involved and allow us to explore opportunities for further multi-agency problem solving.”
Tackling antisocial behaviour is a commitment in the PCC’s three-year Police and Crime Plan.
His plan states that when necessary, the PCC is prepared to use his powers under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act to request a formal report from the local Community Safety Partnership on crime or antisocial behaviour in a specific area.