Cumbria police on the streets to tackle crime in neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood policing teams across Cumbria engaged in a week of proactive activities as part of Neighbourhood Policing Week from 15th to 19th June, aiming to tackle crime and enhance community relations.

Officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) from Eden, Copeland, Carlisle, Allerdale, South Lakes, and Furness undertook several initiatives, including high-visibility patrols and enforcement operations.

A series of warrants were executed in West Cumbria, resulting in one charge and the seizure of drugs.

Community engagement was a major focus, with officers involved in school inputs on personal safety and online awareness, drop-in sessions for residents, and visits to businesses.

Dedicated patrols in Eden and South Lakes addressed road safety and rural crime, while Kendal saw the seizure of an illegally modified electric motorbike and an arrest for drink driving.

Chief Superintendent Andy Wilkinson emphasised the ongoing importance of neighbourhood policing in Cumbria:

“Neighbourhood Policing Week gives us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work that officers and staff in our NPTs are doing all year round to keep our communities safe.

“They are at the heart of their communities and are a huge part of day-to-day policing in Cumbria.

“Having these visible, community focussed officers means we are able to offer an accessible police presence and gain a greater understanding of the issues which need to be addressed – especially within our more rural locations."

David Allen, Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, underscored the importance of visibility and community policing:

“Visibility and Community policing are the main requests I receive from the public, people want a named officer responsible for their particular area. This is a priority to me and is one of the promises that I made to the public of Cumbria when I took up office in 2024."

He shared that the number of Community Beat Officers (CBO) has increased from 58 to 84, and PCSO numbers have also risen, highlighting a commitment to neighbourhood policing.

“I want to thank our Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) across the county for everything they do – their work keeps our streets safe at a very personal level for everyone to enjoy."

Allen encouraged continued community reporting on criminal activity to help build intelligence.

Neighbourhood Policing Week spotlighted the crucial role neighbourhood policing teams play, encouraging collaborative efforts to maintain safety in the region.