Boost for Neighbourhood Police Teams

Neighbourhood policing in Wythenshawe is being boosted by eleven extra officers on the beat, working to tackle local priorities.

The additional officers will form a new Priority Neighbourhood Unit and work in Baguley, Woodhouse Park and Benchill, to tackle the issues that are most important to people in those areas. Their roles will include targeting prolific offenders, tackling drugs issues and anti-social behaviour and working closely with schools to build stronger relations between pupils, parents and surrounding communities.

The extra resources have been secured after a three-year deal was struck by GMPA with the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities earlier this year.

Chief Superintendent David Anthony said: “These extra officers are already making a real difference to communities by tackling crime and providing reassurance.

”They are complementing the good work being carried out by our Neighbourhood Policing Teams in addressing the issues that are important to local people.

”We have already seen the new officers focusing on what matters, from drugs to building stronger links within the community and working with police volunteers. There are many ways that communities can help us to fight crime in their area, including signing up as a Home Watch co-ordinator, working with young people or becoming a special constable.”

GMPA Chairman, Cllr Paul Murphy said: “”Greater Manchester communities told us they wanted more officers on the beat and that’s exactly what we delivered. The officers were funded through the police portion of the council tax bill as part of a three-year deal with local council leaders.

“Neighbourhood Policing Teams make a massive difference to Greater Manchester communities and I believe the deal we made shows that the police authority, the Force and local councils are committed to continued investment in them.”

Six new Baguley officers are pictured with Superintendent John McNeil.