WE are now in a time of change and of opportunity.
After weeks of being out campaigning over evenings and weekends and an exciting general election, I’m looking forward to working with the new government and all new and returning local MPs.
I welcome the government’s commitment to boosting police numbers and making neighbourhood policing more visible.
The King’s Speech also demonstrated there will be action on anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and on tackling violent crime, specifically on male violence against women and girls and knife crime.
I am pleased to say I will be spending a community engagement day in South Gloucestershire in mid-August, where I’ll meet with community groups and support services for victims of crime.
This visit is an opportunity for me to get out, meet people face-to-face and hear your concerns and ideas about policing in your area.
I will also be holding a public forum in the evening on Thursday August 15.
I feel strongly that being out in the community is vital to understanding how we solve the unique challenges we face. The details to book on to the forum will be added to the website, www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk, soon.
This meeting will also help me to shape ideas for my Police and Crime Plan, but it won’t be the last opportunity to have your say.
The draft plan will be published next month for consultation, giving you a chance to share your views on both the plan and how it’s implemented.
During July, I launched a new initiative called Police Question Time (PQT), designed to make it easier for you to voice your opinions on local policing.
I will be posing questions monthly about the performance of Avon and Somerset Police to Chief Constable Sarah Crew.
The first session was live streamed on the Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner
Facebook page on July 17, and you can watch a recording there.
Another new initiative I’m pleased to announce is free bystander intervention training, helping night-time economy workers to recognise the signs of sexual harassment to those working in this sector, like pubs, nightclubs, and hospitality.
You can sign up to the in-person or virtual sessions at tinyurl.com/ywrppa2v.
Ensuring safety in our communities requires proactive measures.
By empowering night time economy workers with bystander intervention training, we can enable them to play a key role in creating safer nightlife environments.
This training is essential for preventing male violence against women and girls, and fostering a secure and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
Together, let’s keep building a safer, more inclusive community.
I look forward to meeting many of you across South Gloucestershire and working with you over the coming weeks, months and years to achieve our shared goals.
In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to me and my office with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you may have at www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.