Crime drops in Harlow
11 November 2011
Harlow is getting safer as crime drops!
THE latest figures from Essex police show that Harlow is now a safer place to live with falls in reported crime ranging from burglary to anti social behaviour and assault.
Overall, crime figures in Harlow for the last year have fallen by more than four per cent on the previous 12 months.
This reduction in crime in Harlow is led by the town’s Safer Harlow Partnership (SHP) whose core aim is to reduce levels of, and fear of, crime and disorder in Harlow. Made up of local authorities, the police, NHS and local bodies like Victim Support, the SHP’s targets for 2011-14 are to cut the rates in burglary; assault; car crime, domestic abuse and anti social behaviour.
The Safer Harlow Partnership has commissioned a number of local initiatives that tackle crime head on with practical measures. Examples include:
* Joint Operation Days – crackdowns on crime in which the Council, police and other agencies work together on a specific issue – for example fly tipping. The results are publicised to increase public confidence as well as tackle the actual issue.
* Taxi Marshalls - cover has been provided each Friday and Saturday with high visibility patrols and both taxi ranks constantly staffed until 4am. Members of the team have been effective in diffusing incidents that had the potential to turn violent and have assisted police in detaining offenders.
* CCTV - Ongoing maintenance and upgrade of CCTV link between the Town Centre Control Room located in the Harvey Centre and Harlow Police Station.
* Crucial Crew - reduce the potential for future offending behaviour by children and young people by raising awareness about personal safety and promoting positive citizenship
* ‘Kickz’ a nationally run five-a-side football programme which uses local ball parks and youth centres to engage with more young people
Malcolm Morley, Chair of the Safer Harlow Partnership and Chief Executive of Harlow Council, said: “These figures are very encouraging and show that our town is a safe place to live.
“However, we’re not complacent. These reductions have been achieved by a steady and targeted programme of activity, and we will keep up the momentum to ensure these falls continue.”
Harlow district commander, Ben Hodder said: "Partnership working is key to these successes due to the dedication and support of not only our partners but also members of our community who we constantly rely on to be our eyes and ears. It is their strength and courage to stand up and be counted by reporting any suspicious activity or offending behaviour, which all adds to making our society a safer and better place in which to live and work."
The Safer Harlow Partnership is supported by: