West Mercia to get government funding for anti social behaviour

Following a successful pilot in ten other force areas in the UK, West Mercia will receive the money to tackle anti-social behaviour says Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion.

Clamping down on ASB is a key concern of the police force, with the PCC funding the launch of five Neighbourhood Crime Fighting Teams covering three counties last year.

The PCC is also putting money into the creation of town centre policing teams in dedicated areas tackling violence, ASB, and illegal public drug consumption.

“I fully support this announcement by the government as I regularly speak to communities across West Mercia who tell me about the impact anti-social behaviour is having on their feelings of safety," said Mr Campion.

“I am clear, ASB is not a low-level crime, and it needs a strong police response. That’s why I remain focused on ensuring West Mercia Police has the resources it needs to drive change."

Mr Campion said this was a step in the right direction, but that he was under no illusion that it will lead to instant results.

“In line with the public’s priorities, I have targeted significant investment into boosting officer numbers to record levels, introduced first-of-a-kind Neighbourhood Crime Fighting Teams and this year, town centre policing teams," he said.

“I am under no illusion that this is job done, and while this progress is welcome it needs to be seen and felt by the public. As set out in my Safer West Mercia Plan, I will continue to use the powers available to me to ensure your voice is at the heart of policing in West Mercia.”

As the voice of the public in policing, Mr Campion says he will work directly with the public to ensure the areas and activities targeted by the teams are both effective and visible.

He will also take a lead role in commissioning services and working with partners to deliver swift and visible punishments to offenders through Immediate Justice.