Crime and the Fear of Crime.

Crime and the fear of crime can affect the quality of peoples lives. We all know that, and much of the pressure on elected members is because the communities that we represent. Very much fear crime and the individuals fear becoming a victim of crime.

So what is being done to improve the situation?. In Wolverhampton there is a very active Crime Reduction and Community Safety Strategy actively in use. The success of the partnership that operates this strategy has been much lauded in certain areas of the City. But that by itself does not mean that the strategy is succesful right across the City?

While Neighbourhood Wardens have been introduced in some areas,they are not found right across the City. Yet the fear that people express in Wednesfield North are as graphic as any fears elsewhere in Wolverhampton. When you are frightened .......you are frightened! There is a need to ensure that so called low crime areas are still provided for, and police services are visible and active. Often the first signs that a neighbourhood is coming apart at the seams is when ugly graffiti is seen everywhere.

So my plea is a simple one, both to the Council and the Police Authority, don't forget us when you are setting your policing plan. Ensure areas like Wednesfield North are provided for, because crime is as rife in our community as it is in other City districts. We need our fair share of resources and we intend not to be forgotten.