Reducing Crime in Norwich North

Seeing crime reduced in Norwich North is not only a target I am passionate to achieve, but it is also an important area in ‘My Plan’ for constituents.

There are many reasons why it is important this happens. The emotional, and at times physical, damage to the victim of a crime can be very harmful. On top of that, those that perpetrate the crime may be a victim themselves, often having been manipulated into a life of crime and drugs. 

That is why it was fantastic to hear the Government announce that 6,620 new officers have joined forces across England and Wales since they launched their major recruitment drive, confirming that The Government have beaten their target of recruiting 6,000 extra officers by March 2021, and that they are ahead of schedule to deliver on their manifesto commitment to recruit 20,000 more police officers by 2023.

This has so far meant that 60 new police officers have been placed in Norfolk, with some having been trained locally at the University of East Anglia. This will mean extra police for Norwich North and extra protection against crime.

In addition to this, the Government have invested £148 million cut crime and protect communities from the scourge of illegal drugs. This funding represents a comprehensive drive to cut drug-fuelled crime and violence in communities, including Norwich North, as we build back our country safer after the pandemic. This investment includes £28 million for Project ADDER (Addiction, Diversion, Disruption, Enforcement and Recovery) that brings together the police and drug recovery services to target and reduce drug-related offending and drug use.

Norwich has been chosen as one of the five areas to be part of the project and Norfolk Council and Norfolk Constabulary were successful in securing £4.8m to deliver an ADDER project which will be included in Norwich North.

Norwich’s rate of drug related death is more than double the national average at 11.4 per 100,000 of the population based on the latest findings 2017-2019 compared to England rate 4.7 per 100,000.

However, partners in Norwich have worked closely with the Government to develop a robust delivery model with strong multi-agency working centred around three key elements: co-ordinated law enforcement activity alongside expanded diversionary programmes and treatment/recovery provision.

This all shows how the Government are ensuring Norwich North police have the powers, tools, and resources they need to cut crime and make you feel safer in your community.

If I can help with any matter, please do email me on chloe@chloesmith.org.uk or ring my constituency office on 01603 414756.