THIS month I wanted to provide you with some highlights of the partnership’s activities over the last year.

We have…

l Continued helping to ensure that there are fewer victims of crime in Wyre Forest, with 671 fewer recorded crimes, which is an 8.4 per cent reduction over 2011-2012 compared to the previous year. Reductions were achieved in dwelling and non-dwelling burglary, arson, shoplifting, most serious violence, public order and theft of and from motor vehicles.

l Supported more than 320 vulnerable residents and victims of dwelling burglary through our Home Security Scheme, which offers advice and products free of charge to the occupier. This district-wide service is available by a referral from a Police CSO or a Community Housing Group Neighbourhood Warden.

l Contributed towards a community safety magazine written by 11to 18-year-olds and helped support the Young Citizen’s Challenge, which is a successful annual school event.

l Provided funding for Bewdley Youth Cafe to deliver a series of personal safety and awareness workshops for local young people.

l Organised a domestic abuse awareness campaign, which included a number of local events and offered training for professionals.

l Given funding to Our Way Self Advocacy, to provide community safety training support for people with learning disabilities and vulnerable people l Helped local community groups through the provision of small grants to put on events such as the Party in the Parks in Bewdley and Stourport.

l Supported Wyre Forest Nightstop and Mediation Scheme, which provides advice and a referral service to offenders or those at risk of offending, to work towards preventing homelessness.

l Delivered seasonal crime prevention awareness campaigns, reminding people to lock up their houses and cars.

l Supported youth/sports development work, the Walshes Youth Club, detached substance prevention youth work and the Walk Like a Warrior Project, delivered by the Worcester Warriors Community Foundation.

l Developed a new website. Please visit www.wfcsp.org.uk for more information about partnership activities, email community.safety@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or telephone 01562 732929.

TOM MAGEE Vice chairman