23 January 2012
Elderly residents at Dover Age Concern, in Maison Dieu Gardens, took part in a police debate to give their views on policing in the area.
Tom Gates, a member of the Kent Police Authority, helped to kick start the debate with local residents who were asked a range of questions from feelings of safety, their experiences of the police, to their top priorities. Police Constable Paul Tutthill was also on hand to offer advice to residents.
Issues raised included groups hanging around the streets at night and a lack of facilities in the town centre for young people.
The discussion found that elderly residents want to see more police officers and to know who their local officer is.
Another big concern for the residents was the obstruction of roadworks and scaffolding on pavements, especially for those who use mobility scooters. Overall residents were happy with their experience of Kent Police officers and felt safe and content with the level of policing service being provided.
The Authority is visiting Age Concern centres around the county to find out what elderly residents think about policing. All the information from the day will be fed back to Kent Police to help shape priorities.
Ann Barnes, Chair of the Kent Police Authority said: 'One of our roles is to set policing priorities and we need to find out what elderly residents think and feel as so often they can feel vulnerable in society. Our countywide tour is collating a pool of information on policing priorities. It’s extremely important that we speak to people face to face to ensure that we’re investing police council taxpayers money in the right areas. This session highlights how we can take away the issues raised and work with local agencies such as the council to make sure these matters are addressed.'
Chief Inspector, Ken Elmes said: ‘It’s very important that we engage with all sections of the community, regardless of age, beliefs or ethnic group. We will continue to work closely with our partners to deal with issues like those raised at the Age Concern meeting.’
* Picture is provided courtesy of Dover District Council