In a joint statement, Matt said he welcomes the Government’s commitment to increasing neighbourhood policing by 13,000 officers.
However, he stressed an effective response to antisocial behaviour (ASB) requires innovation as well as strong partnerships between police and local agencies and a mindset, which puts victims first.
Matt is the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners joint lead for Local Policing alongside Chris Nelson, PCC for Gloucestershire.
That means they talk about neighbourhood crime and policing at a national level.
Both men were reacting to a PEEL spotlight report by His Majesty’s Inspectorate for Constabulary and Fire Services (HMICFRS) on ASB.
The report says police forces must do more to tackle ASB and understand its prevalence in their local communities.
HMICFRS found that most forces need to improve how they identify, record and respond to ASB as well as how they protect vulnerable people.
In a joint statement, Matt and Chris said: “It is encouraging that today’s report cites good examples of police forces working with partner organisations to address ASB through early intervention and problem-solving approaches.
“However, it also finds that good practice is inconsistent across forces and that most need to improve their recording of incidents along with their use of statutory powers available to address the problem.
“ASB blights communities and has a huge impact on people’s lives, particularly the well being of those who are vulnerable. It is also often linked with other criminality.
“It is important that there are quick and easy ways for people to report incidents. It is reassuring that inspectors found some forces are making good use of technology such as apps and QR codes.
“However, it is disappointing that the commitment to tackling ASB is undermined by technical difficulties in sharing data with partners.
“The report identifies the need for good quality data and more analytical expertise within forces so they can respond effectively.
“It is vital that the information police receive about ASB incidents is properly recorded so that patterns of offending can be identified, and an appropriate response actioned.
“Chief Constables must ensure their officers and staff are equipped with the tools and skills to do their job. PCCs will hold them to account on this.
“The report highlights the benefit of well-established and visible neighbourhood policing teams which, as PCCs, we know is what members of the public want so they can feel safe in their communities.
“Initiatives such as funding for ASB hotspot policing, which concentrate efforts on problem areas, have proved highly successful.
“We also very much look forward to the implementation of the Government’s commitment to increasing neighbourhood police by 13,000 officers.
“An effective response to ASB requires innovation, a strong partnership between police and local agencies, and a mindset that puts victims first.
“Tackling ASB is a key priority in all PCCs’ local Police and Crime Plans. We are committed to stamping it out and bringing together local organisations which, through collaboration, work to divert those at risk of being drawn into ASB and potentially more serious criminality.”
