The role of Lichfield District Council in addressing crime is multifaceted, involving preventative measures, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships. While the police are primarily responsible for law enforcement, the council has significant responsibilities related to creating a safe and secure environment for its residents.
Lichfield District has a population of 111,932. Importantly, the crime rate in Lichfield stands at 64.4 incidents per 1,000 people, which is lower than the national average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a relatively safer environment compared to the UK as a whole. The area also boasts a safety score of 84 out of 100, again exceeding the national average of 79. However, even with these positive indicators, the council has a duty to continually work towards improving safety.
The council’s responsibilities extend to several key areas. Firstly, they are responsible for maintaining public spaces, including parks, streets, and buildings. Effective lighting, CCTV surveillance (where appropriate), and regular maintenance contribute to a safer environment and deter criminal activity. Secondly, the council provides support for community safety initiatives, such as neighbourhood watch schemes and crime prevention awareness campaigns. They often allocate funding to support these programmes.
Furthermore, the council works closely with Staffordshire Police, the local police force, and other partner agencies, such as social services and health providers. This collaborative approach allows for a more holistic response to crime, addressing the root causes and providing support to vulnerable individuals. They may also contribute to projects addressing issues like anti-social behaviour and substance misuse, which can be contributing factors to crime. The council's local plans and strategies often outline specific actions and targets related to reducing crime and improving community safety. Residents can find information on these plans through the council’s website and attend public meetings to learn more about their work.
Finally, the council's planning department considers crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) principles when approving new developments, aiming to create spaces that are less susceptible to crime.