New Sheffield inspector aims to build stronger links with local people

PEOPLE living in the North West of Sheffield will see more police officers in their communities in the coming weeks as part of a reshaping of neighbourhood policing.

The Sheffield Central and North West Neighbourhood Team has been split into two, with a new Inspector and additional officers being introduced to increase resources in areas such as Broomhill, Walkley, Hillsborough and Deepcar.

Inspector Kevin Smith is the man taking the helm of the new team: “These changes are fantastic news and will hopefully mean that the diverse communities that make up this part of the city will see an improved service from South Yorkshire Police.

“There are several things I want my team to focus on going ahead, these include domestic burglary which I know is something that people feel very strongly about. We’re already coming up with ideas on how we can reduce the number of incidents and lessen the impact this type of crime has.

“Another priority of mine will be tackling knife crime and the people who are choosing to carry weapons. To deal with this my officers will look at how we work with local schools, how we communicate consequences of armed criminality and also consider enhanced enforcement where appropriate.

“We will also be continuing with exisiting operations around protecting vulnerable people from criminal exploitation and the ripple effects this type of criminality has.

“The North West of the city has such a mix of fantastic communities, from the student population in Broomhill and Crookes, to people living on the rural fringes of the city, it’s an exciting patch to be part of.”

The team will be made up of two sergeants, nine PCs and ten PCSOs.

Insp Smith added: “One thing I’d like from the community in the next few months are suggestions about where you’d like to see us. We need locations for our engagement events and pop in police stations, so if you have any ideas then please do get in touch!

“I want there to be open conversations between my team and local people, we want to tailor what we do, in line with what you need from us.

“I want officers to be familiar faces and trusted by the public, so get in touch, leave us comments on social media and tell us where you want us. We’re here for you, that’s the essence of neighbourhood policing.”