Getting back to normal after Covid
Once again we’re delighted to bring our new column from senior Lothian and Scottish Borders police officers.
Every fortnight officers will tell our readers about their priorities in the coming weeks and months and how they will be helping people across West Lothian to feel safe and secure.
This week it’s the turn of Chief Inspector Alun Williams, local area commander for West Lothian.
“As the local area commander for West Lothian I relish any opportunity to engage with our diverse communities and, as such, I am delighted to be able to contribute to this column.
“After two hard covid-affected years it seems that we are finally starting to return to some sort of normality in our public spaces.
“We have seen the return of a number of events, including large parades in both Whitburn and Broxburn in recent weeks.
“I’m pleased to report these passed with minimal disruption.
“Officers are working hard with our partners to plan for what looks like a full calendar of gala days throughout the spring and summer months, and we look forward to getting back out into the communities in that way.
“Livingston Football Club have secured their place in the Scottish Premiership so we are already starting to plan for another season policing top flight football.
“The roads networks are also
now all but back to normal and speeding remains a key causal factor in road traffic collisions. Our roads policing officers, along with my response and community teams will continue to target key arterial routes including the A71, A899, A706 and A89 (amongst others), where injury collisions typically occur.
“We are also continuing to provide a visible presence in areas near schools and other places, which are identified as being of particular concern by our community councils.
“In the coming weeks we will be supporting national road safety campaigns and weeks of action in relation to seatbelts and the use of mobile phones when driving.
“My officers also are planning, with our key partners, for what we hope will be the return of our young driver event – West Drive – in late August.
“As restrictions come to an end we have seen the night-time economy pick up.
“Footfall in our pubs and clubs is rising and we have been working with the licensed trade to ensure that the premises in West Lothian are as safe and as well managed as possible.
“A number have improved their CCTV systems and door steward arrangements, and undertaken staff training, and I welcome those positive steps.
“We’ve refreshed our weekend plans and no-one should be surprised to see a heightened visible policing presence at weekends in particular. As ever, our key main messages are about individual and wider public safety. Please know your limits when it comes to consuming alcohol and remember over consumption can result in you being more vulnerable.
“If you are going on a night out then plan your journey there and back home. Look after those you are out with and make sure you have all the necessary items with you, such as a fully charged phone, wallet and ID and your keys.
“I’d like to round off by highlighting the recent Police Scotland recruitment campaign which has seen a number of West Lothian residents apply to become either a full-time police officer, staff member or a special constable. If anyone is considering a job in Police Scotland, I would encourage you to visit the recruitment section of our website.”