Council join with Police to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour

Hounslow Council has joined forces with the Metropolitan Police Service to put more 'bobbies on the beat' in the Borough.

Ten extra police officers have been paid for through a “buy one get one free” scheme, which sees Hounslow council paying for five additional officers, and the Metropolitan Police Authority paying for another five.

The extra officers are nine full time constables and one sergeant, who will focus on keeping town centres and open spaces safe. An additional 100 police community officers are now employed in the Borough. A new scheme also sees Hounslow Homes staff issued with new uniforms and trained to report crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Council and police hope the new measures will make residents feel safer in the Borough.

Regular meetings between the council and police will help identify the areas where community safety issues are emerging, according to a statement from Hounslow Council.

The move forms part the council’s pledge to take action on crime with 100 uniformed officers on the streets and CCTV in crime hot spots.

Cllr Ed Mayne, cabinet member for community safety and regulatory services at the council, said: “Despite it’s relatively low level, crime and anti social behaviour is a major concern for our residents as it can ruin people’s lives and these extra officers could make a real difference to the issue.

“These are experienced police officers whose presence means we can target the areas where people are concerned about crime.”

The scheme was announced by the Mayor of London last year, and the final plans were agreed by Cabinet recently. Hounslow Council has also trained a team of housing officers to tackle anti-social behaviour and issued new uniforms.

Godfrey Hamilton, Housing Manager for Hounslow Homes, said: “We have been working closely with the council to improve the visibility of our staff on our estates.

“Our 30 Anti Social Behaviour and Tenancy Management officers have been fully trained on how to act on anti social behaviour wherever they find it. The officers will be wearing their new uniform whenever they are working in public area.

“We also hope that this higher level of visibility will offer reassurance to our residents, and enable them to feel safer on their estates.”

There are currently 250 uniformed repairs, caretaking and concierge staff, and a further 30 uniforms are being issued to other Hounslow Homes staff who will be receiving special training in due course.

November 15, 2011