Crime prevention initiative launched in Heywood

Heywood Community Event launch with GMP Specials, GMP officers, local citizens and Father Paul Daly

Rochdale Police have launched a crime reduction operation as part of their community-orientated police initiative in Heywood on Friday (17 October).

The initiative included neighbourhood police officers, special constables, police cadets, local community citizens and partner agencies.

Chief Inspector Umer Khan was joined by Chief Officer for the Special Constabulary Mike Walmsley, around 20 special Constables, Father Paul Daly, community citizens and Councillors Peter Rush, Alan McCarthy and Jacqui Beswick.

Those in attendance attended a joint briefing before heading out in teams to share crime prevention advice and provide help and reassurance to local people who have been unfortunate victims of crime.

The initiative also focused on Anti Social Behaviour which has been a problem in Heywood.

Chief Inspector Umer Khan from Greater Manchester Police’s Rochdale Division said: “In current times of austerity when public services are being stretched it is important we involve our communities and adopt collaborative working relationships.  

“Solutions often lie beyond the reach of the police and it is only by working with local people, partner agencies and even in commercial enterprises that we can become effective at solving local problems.

“I want to thank all of the local volunteers and the active citizens who have helped to support this initiative. It was very well received in Heywood. It was a really good event and was a good way to establish that link between the police and the community.”

Specials Constabulary Chief Officer Mike Walmsley, said: “Officers from the Special Constabulary play an important role in community policing. Specials live and work in the community and in their spare time, they volunteer to help reduce crime and disorder and make people feel safe.

“It is great to see so many officers volunteer for this initiative and I am confident they will continue to support in future schemes.”

Father Paul Daly, Heywood Parish Priest said: “It is great that creative ways are being looked at and trialled to address community concerns. Local people are proud and are happy to support their public services to reduce crime and disorder in the area. People want to live in peace and it is great to work with the community toward this joint aim.”

Similar events will take place in Rochdale this weekend and over the Halloween weekend.

The initiative will run every weekend in selected areas until Christmas.