Northumbria Police is leading a multi-agency operation to increase police patrols in Newcastle city centre this summer to tackle anti-social behaviour. Dubbed 'Operation Toonwatch', officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Newcastle, supported by Eldon Square, the city's universities, Nexus, and youth services, will be more visible in the area, including through both uniform and plain-clothed patrols.
Focus on diversion and disruption
The focus will be on diverting young people away from crime, but will also include the disruption of large crowds and gatherings which could appear intimidating to the public, and dealing with the minority who are displaying anti-social, violent, or simply unacceptable behaviour towards others.
Neighbourhood Inspector Karen Madge, of Northumbria Police, said: "Newcastle city centre is known for being an amazing place, with visitors flocking here year-round and especially in the warmer months. As with any major city, this can sadly often attract a minority who are set on causing trouble for the wider public and businesses."
Data-led deployments
Madge added: "That’s why this year we’re getting ahead when it comes to tackling anti-social behaviour, with the announcement falling on national ASB Awareness Week. While we carry out a range of activity throughout the year to drive down pockets of disorder, Operation Toonwatch will only strengthen our approach as we move into summer."
"All of our deployments with partners will be guided by data and intelligence, so we can really drill into any issues and prevent any further criminality. We’ve seen similar operations work really well across our region, such as in our coastal towns to reduce ASB and keep people safe in collaboration with partners."
Call for parental support
Madge said: "As ever, we’d ask parents and carers to work with us and understand where their children are headed before getting mixed up in any wrongdoing. Ultimately we want everyone to be able to enjoy what the city has to offer during the summer, but we will take robust action when it’s needed and appropriate, including enforcement action."
Coun Peter Lovatt, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local services at Newcastle City Council, said: "We know that as the regional capital young people naturally gravitate towards the city, especially during the summer holidays, with the vast majority having no issues."
Positive activities for young people
Lovatt added: "Operation Toonwatch is a positive and proactive step in supporting young people into positive activities in Newcastle. And we have some fantastic events and activities going on in the city over the summer."
"Only a small minority of young people cause any issues, and over a number of years we have seen the benefit of targeted intervention and of agencies working together. We hope the Toonwatch plan offers reassurance to everyone visiting our city centre that a safe and warm welcome awaits."
Additional deterrent
The operation will be an additional deterrent, on top of the usual police activity, and anyone with concerns is asked to speak to an officer on duty, report via the police social media channels, or use the live chat and online forms on the police website. Those who are unable to make contact in those ways are asked to call 101, and in an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always dial 999. To report anti-social behaviour to the local authority, you should visit the relevant council website for more information.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth added: "The launch of Toonwatch is a great example of partners pulling together with a shared commitment to ensuring Newcastle City Centre is a safe and welcoming place for everyone."
"It’s about building on the good work that is happening all year around by boosting activity in a hotspot area during the summer when we know ASB always rises. It shows we are listening to local concerns, taking action and providing reassurance through a visible presence where and when it matters most."
