Multi-agency team targets crime and disorder in Byker
EPiC East launches to tackle crime trends and improve community safety
A new initiative aimed at addressing crime and improving the community has been launched in the Shields Road area of Byker, Newcastle.
Known as EPiC East (Empowering People in Communities), the team consists of eight members from Northumbria Police, Newcastle City Council, and various support services.
Operating from the East End Library and Community Hub, EPiC East aims to tackle all types of crime within its jurisdiction, with a particular focus on anti-social behavior and supporting local businesses and residents.
Recently, neighborhood officers and community safety staff conducted joint patrols during an engagement day held on 19th March.
The Force’s community engagement van was stationed at Hadrian Square to give locals the opportunity to interact with the newly formed team.
Visits to local businesses included checks on licensing and food hygiene, while parking enforcement officers were also present on the busy street.
Additionally, His Majesty’s Probation Service contributed to a Community Payback litter pick in the area.
Artwork was unveiled on Addison Road by Alec Saunders as part of community engagement efforts.
Susan Dungworth, Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, attended the engagement day, meeting the team and communicating with the broader community.
Neighborhood Sergeant Graeme Cockerill, who leads EPiC East within Northumbria Police, said:
“We had a brilliant engagement day in Byker, showing business owners and residents alike that our EPiC East team are here to help them.
“We’ve already seen great success with this type of multi-agency approach in other locations, often leading to a significant drop in crime and an improved look and feel for an area.
“Working together under one roof with our partners can only bring positives as we look to make Byker safe and pleasant for everyone.
“The EPiC East team will be really embedded on Shields Road itself, working on the issues that matter most to people, so they can make a meaningful difference.”
Councillor Irim Ali, Newcastle City Council Cabinet member for communities, added:
“Since its launch just over three years ago, EPiC has had a substantial impact on our communities.
“Whether helping to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, delivering community-led projects, improving public spaces or increasing community participation and pride, leading to more engagement in local events and volunteering, this is an initiative the city can be proud of.
“Building on the successes of City Safe in the city centre, EPiC West, and more recently EPiC North and Outer West (EPiC NOW), it is great to see the council, police and partners working side by side on EPiC East to listen, build relationships with our communities and tackle some of the issues that matter most to our residents.”
To report a crime, individuals can contact Northumbria Police via direct message on social media, live chat, or report forms on the Force’s website.
Alternatively, they can speak to a member of the EPiC East team or an officer on duty.
For those unable to make contact in these ways, the number 101 is available, while 999 should be dialed in emergencies or when a crime is occurring.