Extra police patrols rolled out as part of summer campaign in Wiltshire and Swindon
The Safer Streets Summer campaign is backed by £1 million of government funding.
Extra police patrols are being rolled out across town centres in Wiltshire and Swindon this summer.
The Safer Streets Summer campaign aims to cut knife crime, tackle anti-social behaviour and make public spaces feel safer.
It’s backed by £1 million in government funding and will focus on hotspot areas like Swindon, Chippenham and Trowbridge.
The funding has come from the Home Office’s Hotspot Response Fund and delivered via the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Making our town centres safer is not just about more patrols – it is about listening to what communities want and acting upon it.
“While the additional funding for this increased focus has come from Government, our approach is built upon engagement and feedback from communities who have been telling me since my election in 2021, they want greater police officer visibility and for Wiltshire Police to tackle the crimes that matter to their communities.
“Over the last few years, we have seen Wiltshire Police increasingly delivering on this as they work to my Police and Crime Plan, improving their performance and delivery along the way.
“Policing should have input from the communities it serves and we have listened to feedback from residents and businesses by investing in what works: visibility, partnership, and real consequences for those who cause harm.”
Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “The Commissioner and I are committed to increasing our visibility, engagement and accessibility within our communities."
"Across the summer, you will see my officers, staff and volunteers out in your communities to ensure we are not just responding to crime – we are preventing it."
“This is more than just us being present in those areas you live and work in – we are listening to you, responding to your concerns and we are accountable for making you feel safer."
“We will continue to build relationships with our communities to strengthen the trust and confidence you have in our service and we will keep you updated across the summer with what we are doing in your area and how we will improve the service you receive."
“Please engage with our Neighbourhood Policing Teams and keep updated with their activities in your community via the Your Area section of our website."
“The work you will see across the next few months is central to our mission of Keeping Wiltshire Safe.”
Mr Wilkinson added: “We know crime doesn’t stop when the sun comes out – in fact, we often see more of it."
“That is why this is not just a police effort. Our partners, from councils to community groups, are all pulling together. Wiltshire Police and my office will be out at markets, festivals and events all summer, sharing safety advice and listening to what matters most to you."
“Crucially – if you see something, tell Wiltshire Police. The more they know, the better they can respond. This is a shared mission.”