In Cheshire, a PCSO in the Port has prescribed drop-in surgeries at a local hospital for residents suffering crime and grime issues.
PCSO Wendy Rowlands, of Ellesmere Port Communtiy Action Team, is staging meetings at Ellesmere Port Hospital, Chester Road, Whitby. They take place on the first Tuesday of every month from 2 – 4pm and will be held in the coffee bar.
Wendy said: "We’re always looking at ways we can improve the way people can access our services. Sessions at the local hospital are yet another example of this.
"Having a surgery at the hospital gives people who may be reticent or too intimidated to come to a police station an opportunity to report their concerns.
"I think it’s also reassuring for the people who work and visit the hospital to see a police presence about."
Co-location is nothing new for the police – there are currently surgeries staged at public venues such as local libraries and community centres.
Residents are encouraged to go along, meet their local officer and talk about issues which may be having an impact on their quality of life.
PCSO Rowlands said: "It’s really important for people to be aware that we cannot tackle an issue if we know nothing about it.
"Coming along and having a say at these surgeries really helps us to get a true picture of what life is like within the area. From this we can see what the problems are and work with partner agencies to deal with them."
