Anti-social behaviour (ASB) has fallen 42% across 15 hotspot locations in Cumbria over the last two years following enhanced Police patrols.
These patrols fall under Operation Enhance that aims to tackle anti-social behaviour in identified hotspots in the county. The Operation is funded by David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, who secured £1 million of extra funding from the Government’s Hotspot Action Fund.
As well as reducing ASB, the enhanced patrols have also had an effect on other areas of crime including ASB-related offences and retail crime that have fallen by 8.4% and 12.5% respectively.
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “These results show that investing in visible, frontline policing is making a real difference in our communities.
“We have residents approaching our officers, to tell them how much safer they feel with a Police presence in their community and the difference it is making. This really highlights that not only are we seeing the positive impact on crime figures, but communities are feeling safer and more welcoming for everyone.
“In places like Cleator Moor, a 36.7% drop in ASB is significant for such a small, but strong, community. This reduction means fewer victims which can only be a positive.
“These hotspots were identified through reporting and crime data showing just how important reporting from the public is. The Police rely on reporting to identify where there are issues so that they can place the resources where they are needed most. If you don’t report it, the Police may not know that there is an issue.
“I’d urge the public to continue to report ASB and crime to the Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Let’s work together to protect Cumbria’s communities.”
Chief Superintendent Andy Wilkinson, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “Operation Enhance is about putting officers in the right places, at the right times, to tackle the issues that matter most to local communities. These results demonstrate the impact that visible, targeted patrols have had in reducing anti‑social behaviour and associated crime.
“The 42% reduction in ASB across our hotspot areas is a clear indication that this approach is working. It means fewer victims, improved quality of life for residents and safer town centres and neighbourhoods.
“We are using data and local intelligence to focus our resources where they will have the greatest effect, while continuing to work closely with partner agencies and the public.”
Justin McDermott, Executive Member for Public Health and Communities at Cumberland Council, said: "At the heart of everything we do is a simple priority: keeping people safe. The significant reduction in antisocial behaviour across these hotspot areas shows the real impact that focused, visible action can have in protecting our communities. When residents feel safer walking through their town centre or letting their children play outside, that is when these numbers truly matter.
"This progress reflects strong partnership working and the dedication of officers on the ground, but it also relies on local people continuing to report issues so we can respond quickly and effectively. By working together, we can keep building safer, healthier and more confident communities across Cumberland."
If you wish to report to police you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress. Alternatively, you could be entitled to up to £1,000 for giving information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.