Telford MP urges government to give police more tools to tackle anti-social behaviour

In recent months residents in Telford have raised concerns with Shaun Davies Member of Parliament for Telford about a lack of police resources to tackle repeat anti-social behaviour (ASB) across Telford’s high streets and communities.

Telford’s MP has taken immediate steps to address these concerns, engaging directly with the community and the local policing team. To better understand the scale and specifics of the challenges faced by residents, Shaun has also launched a constituency-wide survey.

This survey invites residents to share their views and experiences on local crime, particularly on issues such as repeated ASB and police visibility.

Feedback from the survey will be used to help Shaun advocate for improvements, ensure local voices are heard at the highest levels and drive change in Telford.

Ahead of Anti-Social Behaviour 2024 Shaun spent half a day with the local policing team in Telford, gaining invaluable insight into the daily challenges they face in maintaining safety and order. This firsthand experience has provided him with a deeper understanding of the pressures on policing resources and the need for enhanced support.

Last week in Parliament, Shaun also raised the ongoing issue of repeat anti-social behaviour with the Minister for Policing Diana Johnson, urging the government to provide additional resources to tackle the problem effectively.

In response, the Minister emphasised the Neighbourhood Police Guarantee which launched this week and is a cornerstone of the government’s new policing reform agenda. This initiative includes a commitment to recruit 13,000 extra neighbourhood police officers and put a named police officer in every community.

The Home Secretary has also unveiled over £500 million in additional central government funding for policing in the coming year. This significant investment will support the government’s Safer Streets Mission, which includes an increase in the core grant for police forces and dedicated funding for neighbourhood policing to enhance safety and security in communities across the country.

Shaun commented:

"I’ve heard from residents loud and clear about their frustrations with persistent anti-social behaviour and their call for more visible police officers on our streets. I’ve also seen firsthand the dedication of our local officers, who are working tirelessly under immense pressure. That’s why I’m fully committed to advocating for the resources and strategies needed to ensure our community feels safe and supported.

"When you call the police, they should respond. When you report a crime, it should be properly investigated. Unfortunately, 14 years of Conservative policies have led to the erosion of community policing. Neighbourhood officers have been pulled off the beat to cover shortages elsewhere, breaking the crucial connection between the police and the communities they serve."

Shaun says he is committed to continuing this proactive approach by working closely with both the community and law enforcement to ensure that concerns are addressed and that everyone can feel safer in their homes and neighbourhoods.

To complete the survey and submit your views visit forms.office.com/e/kYTJnsATaC.