CRIME in North Worcestershire has decreased by 6.3 per cent from last year according to the latest figures released by the North Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership (NWCSP).

The figures recorded 952 fewer offences across Wyre Forest, Bromsgrove and Redditch in the last year and there was also a substantial decrease in the percentage of people who think that anti-social behaviour is a problem in their local area.

NWCSP, which is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner, works with the police, agencies and communities to address local safety issues.

Sue Hanley, chairman of NWCSP, said: “We are extremely pleased with this result but it does not mean that we will become complacent.

“We will keep on working together to help you feel safe where you live and continue to reduce crime, the fear of crime, disorder and the anti-social behaviour that affects our local communities.”

The partnership’s priorities during the next year will focus on tackling anti-social behaviour, preventing violence and abuse, burglary and to reduce reoffending.

Mark Garnier, MP for Wyre Forest, said: “These figures are very pleasing.

“They show that the hard work that the police and organisations such as the NWCSP do is really paying off.

“It is important that this work continues and it is encouraging to know that NWCSP remain focused on tackling crime to ensure that Wyre Forest residents feel safe in their own communities.”

The partnership is also currently working to deliver a campaign which aims to raise awareness and tackle all forms of hate crime and is supporting the White Ribbon Campaign against domestic abuse.

Wyre Forest District Councillor Anne Hingley, cabinet member for health, well-being and housing, said: “Hate crime and domestic abuse incidents affect our communities but are under reported.

“We hope that these projects will support some of our most vulnerable residents and increase awareness of something that is often seen as behind closed doors”.

For more information and detailed statistics visit nwcsp.org