Council given more than £400,000 in safety funding
READING Borough Council has received more than £400,000 of funding from the government in a bid to improve safety.
In partnership with Thames Valley Police and the police and crime commissioner, the council has been given £429,000 to improve safety of residents in Reading.
It means that a number of initiatives will be moved forward by the council and the police. A new community Safe Hub will be instated, including a permanent home for the first aid and welfare service First Stop, which will serve the town centre.
Key areas in Reading will be identified for improvements such as lighting and CCTV to improve safety.
The council is also seeking to create safer routes for women to travel home late at night and campaigns to help victims to report crimes.
A new partnership between the council and further education institutions to work with students and listen to their experiences regarding safety.
It is the second round of safety funding the council has received after being awarded £402,000 to tackle crime in 2021.
Karen Rowland, lead councillor for environmental services and community safety, said: “The award of this funding is great news for all who enjoy our vibrant town centre, as it means we can do more to improve safety and ensure our residents also feel safer.
“Focusing on the creation of a Community Safe Space Hub for the town centre and working with young people in developing positive outcomes will help to give residents an increased sense of security whilst taking advantage of all our town centre has to offer.
“We are committed to reducing crime and antisocial behaviour in our town through successfully applying for funding grants such as this through our Community Safety Partnership work.
She said also that the council is keen to hear from residents about their concerns and ideas surrounding safety and crime.
“I welcome all residents to take part in the two consultations that are currently live to help us best shape our Community Safety Partnership’s work on crime and anti-social behaviour, and domestic violence.”
Last week Reading Borough Council launched public consultations on its community safety, serious violence and domestic abuse strategies, where residents are invited to provide feedback to help shape future responses to crime and violence.