PCC meets residents in Melksham about anti-social behaviour

Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has met with people from one part of Melksham to talk about problems with anti-social behaviour where they live.

The meeting at Melksham Rugby Club last night (August 2) was set up by councillors in the East Ward following a number of complaints in the area.

Sgt James Twyford spoke to residents about a typical day for the Neighbourhood Policing Team and how problems in the area were being dealt with, while the Police and Crime Commissioner explained his role and how he believes anti-social behaviour needs to solved using a joined-up approach.

Mr Wilkinson said:

“Tackling anti-social behaviour is one of the key priorities set out in my Police and Crime Plan and it’s clear from listening to the residents in Melksham that it’s something which has a significant impact on their daily lives.

“Dealing with anti-social behaviour isn’t just about robust policing but it’s also about looking at its root causes and working with schools and councils to create an education and engagement package to support what our Neighbourhood Policing Team already does.

“I recognise that our frontline teams are stretched at the moment, but I am working with the Chief Constable to put as many officers into public facing roles as possible and this will make a difference”  

The PCC has already seen initiatives set up in Devizes, Downton and Malmesbury to tackle anti-social behaviour and will continue to work with agencies across the county in order to stamp it out.

Published Wednesday 3 August