Police are reaching out to local people in Plymouth with doorstep policing
Police in Plymouth are on a drive to connect with people in the city to strengthen relationships, build public confidence and increase reporting of crime.
Neighbourhood police officers in the centre of Plymouth, who are responsible for providing visible ‘on the beat’ policing, are carrying out door-to-door introductions while on patrol across Prince Rock, Plymstock, Mutley, Greenbank and Efford.
Police Sergeant Justin Gool said: “While on patrol, officers will knock on the doors of homes across various neighbourhoods. The purpose of these check ins is to give the public a chance to meet our officers and raise any concerns they have. This could be a question about crime prevention they may have and it’s also a useful way for us to gather information about safety and crime in the area. The information we collect allows us to build a clear picture of where crime is happening and when, which means we are able to plan proactive activity such as increased patrols, to deter and target offenders. Not only that, but it’s an opportunity for us share how the public can keep up to date with what their local police teams are doing to keep the community safe.”
Police Sergeant Kirstie Swift said: “This work is essential to make sure that we build strong links within our community. After all, we’re here to serve and protect the public and an effective way of making sure we do this is by officers visiting and introducing themselves in the neighbourhoods we look after.
“By meeting residents face-to-face, we hope to build trust and encourage communication with our officers; we want people to feel comfortable reaching out to us. Our aim is to show the public that we’re accessible, approachable and here if anyone is in need of help.”
The police team are carrying out this community engagement in the Prince Rock, Plymstock, Mutley, Greenbank and Efford areas and will then focus on surrounding neighbourhoods in Plymouth city centre.
If you’re interested in finding out more about what the neighbourhood officers do in your local area, visit the ‘what’s happening in your area’ section of the Devon & Cornwall Police website. Dates for upcoming public meetings are also located here, where the public can discuss local issues and priorities – please consider coming along to one of these to meet your local team.
Alternatively, sign up to Devon & Cornwall alert https://alerts.dc.police.uk/ to hear the latest information directly from Devon & Cornwall Police.
To report a crime or information about a crime, use the online reporting tool on the Devon & Cornwall website, or call 101. If a crime is taking place, call 999.
Crime can also be reported completely anonymously. Visit the Crimestoppers website or call 0800 555 111 to report a crime with 100% anonymity.
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