The Safer Communities Partnership Board meeting on 12 July 2024 reviewed the performance of the Safer Communities Partnership, including recent crime statistics and the work of the Antisocial Behaviour Team. The Board noted the progress made and received an update on the ongoing implementation of the Community Safety Plan.

Performance and Crime Statistics

The board reviewed the year to date performance of the Safer Communities Partnership. There was a detailed discussion of the recently published crime statistics for the borough, which showed an overall reduction in crime compared to the same period in the previous year.

The recent crime statistics indicate a positive trend, with a 5% reduction in overall crime rates compared to the same period last year. This achievement can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the partnership and the proactive measures implemented. However, we must remain vigilant in addressing specific areas of concern.

However, concerns were raised about an increase in domestic burglaries in a particular area of the borough.

In response to the increase in domestic burglaries, the Superintendent Caroline Berry of Colindale Police Station said:

We have identified a concerning spike in domestic burglaries specifically within the Church End ward. To address this, we are intensifying patrols in the area and have allocated additional resources to our burglary squad.

Church End is a ward in the London Borough of Barnet.

Antisocial Behaviour Team Update

The Board received a report on the activities of the Antisocial Behaviour Team. The team reported a significant increase in the number of cases related to noise nuisance.

Councillor Ann John, the lead member for Community Safety, said that

The rise in noise nuisance complaints is concerning. We are committed to working with residents and partners to address this issue and ensure that everyone can enjoy peace and quiet in their homes.

The council will be launching a public awareness campaign to educate residents about noise pollution and their responsibilities. The council will also work with landlords and managing agents to address noise issues in private rented properties.

Community Safety Plan

The Board reviewed the progress made in implementing the actions outlined in the Community Safety Plan. Councillor Daniel Thomas, the Leader of the Council, highlighted the importance of partnership working:

The Community Safety Plan provides a comprehensive framework for collaboration between the council, police, and other partners to address key crime and disorder issues affecting our borough.

They noted that good progress had been made on a number of key initiatives, including the installation of CCTV in a local park and the expansion of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

The Community Safety Plan was adopted in July 2023 and sets out how the council, the police, and other partners, will work together to make the borough safer. This is the council's current statement on how they will keep their residents safe.