The role of the local council in addressing crime within South Ribble is multifaceted, encompassing collaboration, funding, and community engagement. While the police service holds primary responsibility for law enforcement, the council plays a crucial supporting role in creating a safer environment for its 116,113 residents.
Firstly, South Ribble Council actively participates in Community Safety Partnerships (CSPs). These partnerships bring together representatives from various agencies, including the police, fire service, health services, and voluntary organisations, to develop and implement strategies to reduce crime and disorder. The council contributes financially to CSP initiatives and provides local knowledge to tailor these strategies to South Ribble’s specific needs. These partnerships focus on preventative measures and addressing the root causes of crime, rather than solely reactive policing.
Secondly, the council has a responsibility to maintain public spaces and infrastructure that can impact safety. This includes ensuring adequate street lighting, addressing issues of vandalism, and maintaining safe public transport links. While direct crime prevention may not be the explicit goal, these actions contribute to a sense of security and can deter potential offenders. A higher safety score of 82/100 for South Ribble, compared to the UK average of 79, suggests existing efforts are yielding positive results.
Furthermore, South Ribble Council supports community-led initiatives like Neighbourhood Watch schemes. These schemes foster a sense of community ownership and encourage residents to be vigilant and report suspicious activity. The council may provide funding, training, or logistical support for these schemes. They also often facilitate communication between residents and the police.
It's important to note that South Ribble's crime rate, at 83.3 per 1,000 residents, is slightly below the UK average of 91.6. This indicates a relatively lower level of reported crime compared to the national picture. However, the council’s ongoing involvement remains essential to maintaining this trend and further improving the safety and wellbeing of the local community. Residents can find information about council-led crime reduction initiatives on the South Ribble Council website and through local media channels.