‘Ello ‘ello to reduce crime
Fear of crime on what was Worksop’s most
burgled street has been slashed, thanks to a pioneering project
between Nottinghamshire Police and L&H Homes.
Six months ago L&H Homes residents in
Yeoman Close were identified as suffering the most burglary
incidents per population in their town. To address the problem, the
crime reduction manager and L&H team agreed to start a project
to boost security.
Thanks to the partnership, all 53 homes and
flats benefited from extra security measures on their front and
back doors, new alarms and letterbox cages. The materials were
funded by the police, with L&H Homes providing the labour and
managing liaison with residents.
Additional measures have also helped to
improve the look and feel of the estate. These include installing
signage, adding new steel fencing, contacting Eon to clear graffiti
and gaining funding to improve the previously ‘open access’ drying
area. The knock- on effect has been substantial, according to Lisa
Birch who led the project for L&H Homes.
She said: “Our survey with residents shows
that they are very satisfied with the work completed, and we’ve had
many comments showing a powerful appreciation of the project. By
working together we’ve helped reduce crime levels, and through
working with residents and showing we listen, we’ve also tackled
some long-standing issues around waste management on the estate.
“With welcome packs now on hand for new households on the street,
and cameras in void properties, the project continues to generate
results. We’re now set to launch it in another neighbourhood,
working with the council, police and other social landlords.”
The success of the project has seen it entered
for a national award, and the partnership approach is set to be
replicated across the county by Nottinghamshire Police.
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