Neighbourhood champions to start work

PETTY nuisances in Peterborough will be cleared up by a team of 10 newly qualified “Neighbourhood Champions”.

People who need advice in dealing with anti-social behaviour in their communities have been urged to contact the Peterborough Neighbourhood Champions, who are ready to provide support following completion of a training programme.

The group was formed in April 2011 with support from the Saferpeterborough partnership.

The group spent the last 12 months raising funds, recruiting volunteers and putting them through a training regime so they are now ready to begin supporting residents.

Ten volunteers will work in pairs across the city to support people with concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour.

The group aims to help reduce offending, anti-social behaviour and hate crime.

The volunteers will be tasked with reducing the fear of crime and empowering communities to make a difference and campaign for positive change where they live.

Kevin Bell, chairman of Peterborough Neighbourhood Champions, said: “It has taken a year of hard work to get to this point but I am pleased we are now ready to start helping the people of Peterborough.

“Our volunteers can offer a range of support services including providing information and contact details of partner support organisations.

“We can also report issues on behalf of residents and ensure progress is made after an incident of anti-social behaviour is reported.”

Gary Goose, community safety strategy manager for the Saferpeterborough partnership, said: “Neighbourhood Champions are an asset to our communities and will install extra confidence in our residents when it comes to reporting crime and anti-social behaviour and accessing criminal justice services.”

To contact them, call Kevin Bell on 07920 485368 or email kevinbell5343@live.co.uk.