Residents turn-out for PCC’s first Q&A event in Watton

More than 60 members of the public joined Lorne Green and Chief Constable Simon Bailey in Watton for the PCC's first policing and crime Q&A of 2018.

The Queens Hall was the venue for the event yesterday evening which gave attendees the opportunity to find out about policing in their area, meet senior and local officers, and raise their crime and policing concerns.



 

 

 

 

 

As well as getting an overview of police activity and priorities from Breckland District Chief Inspector Paul Wheatley, the meeting heard from the Chief Constable on changes to Norfolk's policing model and the ongoing challenges and demands faced by the Force.

The PCC and Chief Constable answered questions on a range of subjects, from anti-social behaviour, street drinking, rural crime and domestic abuse, to police contact, responsiveness and visibility.

PCC Lorne Green, said: “I was delighted to see so many residents at last night’s event. It is clear people in Watton feel very passionate about the area in which they live and work and I would like to thank all those who took the opportunity to come along.

“As Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner it is important I listen to any concerns people may have about policing and my new-style question and answer sessions are a perfect platform in which to do so.

“I am looking forward to the next event planned for the west Norfolk area where I hope to see as many residents as possible. Over the course of the year, we’ll be making our way around the county so keep an eye on the Norfolk PCC website for future dates and locations.”

On the subject of visible policing attendees at the meeting were introduced to some of the Norfolk officers dedicated to local, community policing.

Breckland's Community Engagement Officer, PC Amy Lucas, and Watton's Beat Manager, PC Austin Clarke, talked about their roles and, more specifically, how they are working to build and maintain links with communities and provide a local point of contact for residents.

Residents also saw a demonstration of some of the 20^th century equipment – introduced under Lorne - such as tablets for mobile working and body worn cameras, which are helping Norfolk's police officers to work more efficiently, freeing up their time to spend more time on the beat and be more visible in communities.

Prior to the meeting Lorne met with residents and local councillors in and around Watton to discuss their views on policing.

Lorne visited the Blenheim Grange area in Carbrooke where there have been reports of anti-social behaviour. He was accompanied by Carbrooke councillors, Phil Samphire, Mike Wormall and Julie Nind.

Lorne also spent the day with Watton Deputy Mayor Tina Kiddell who, alongside local officers, accompanied him on a visit to Wayland Academy where he spoke to staff and students about policing and crime.

The Q&A event was the first of its kind in 2018 as part of the Commissioner’s ongoing pledge to give the public access to the county’s senior officers while ensuring he and the wider police service are visible, accessible and accountable to all.

The next event is scheduled to take place on Monday 23 April 2018. Further information will be announced in due course.