MEMBERS of Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) have agreed to provide support to another seven local community groups who are rolling out projects that promote safer communities.
The multi-agency Partnership met recently in the Baptist Church, Ballynahinch, to discuss the main safety concerns within the District and to agree how to best to provide support. Partnership members debated different approaches to dealing with problems and looked at new strategies that will help improve the quality of life for residents.
PCSP Chairperson, Councillor Carmel O’Boyle said: “The Partnership has only been in operation for a short period of time and already it has been proactive about the help needed at grass roots levels. Members are keen to assist any community that wants to work together to make people feel safer. To date we have provided funding and support for up to 18 key initiatives as well as overseeing larger programmes such as CCTV and Bonfire Beacons.”
At the meeting, Members heard how PCSP funding was fundamental in keeping The Edge Project, Ballynahinch active. Project Manager, Claire Porter highlighted the groups main activities including outreach work with local young people on Friday and Saturday evenings and the invaluable support of volunteers who continue to give them time and energy to helping others feel safe.
New Policing and Community Safety Partnership Network Chair Elected
Mr John Huddleston was elected as the first Chair of the PCSP Network at a recent meeting of the Committee in Downpatrick.
PCSP Chairperson, Councillor Carmel O’Boyle congratulated Mr Huddleston on his recent election, explaining that all Members were confident that he would play a significant role in his term of office and wished him well.
Speaking after the meeting Mr Huddleston said: “I am delighted to be elected as Chair of this new Committee and I am excited about developing a programme of work with my colleagues in the Partnership that will be a benefit to community groups and Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators across Down District.”
