Tower Blocks

Tower Blocks

Hello Resident

We have had reports of an increase of Anti-Social behaviour in the tower blocks in Erdington. Whilst we understand that local youths want to enjoy being outside and being with their friends, causing anti-social behaviour isn’t acceptable to the rest of the community.

In relation to overall building security, all residents need to keep an eye and ear out, and support with making sure that communal front and back doors are never left open. If the premises are BCC please report to your housing officer as soon as possible, protection of your home begins from the outside. Please check that the managing agent or landlord cuts shrubs and planting back regularly so that they don’t obscure anyone from view or interfere with lighting or CCTV.

If you notice something’s not working properly or if a light is out, let the managing agent or landlord know so that it can be fixed straight away.

Your communal door is only effective if it is closed and secure, so always remember to check that it locks behind you. If it doesn’t then report it to your management agent or landlord so it can be repaired quickly.

Don’t ever buzz anyone in that you don’t know, even if they say that they’re expected by another resident, or let them follow you in.

Keep cycle stores, bin stores, sheds and other covered areas locked and secured. These hidden spaces can attract loitering and lead to antisocial behaviour, especially after dark.

We require your support in reporting matters so that we are aware of any issues within your community. Please be aware we may not be able to attend all reports, this may be due to other commitments. Informing us of problems in your community can assist us in providing supporting evidence that will enable us to request additional patrols from other departments.

By working together as a community and actively looking after our area we can create a better and safer place to live. Your involvement is crucial and I encourage you to engage with us through the following avenues:

Sign up for our FREE neighbourhood policing alerts: These alerts provide you with updates about crime, safety advice, and important information specific to your community. I highly recommend taking advantage of this valuable service by signing up at www.wmnow.co.uk

Establish a StreetWatch in your area: StreetWatch is a community-led project comprised of volunteers aged 18 and above. These groups patrol their respective areas to help prevent crime and address anti-social behaviour. StreetWatch volunteers contribute significantly to maintaining community safety. Patrols are always conducted by at least two individuals, and each group designates a coordinator. If the group sees suspicious or criminal activity they report it to police. If you want to find out more about StreetWatch please contact your local neighbourhood policing team.

Establish a Neighbourhood Watch: Neighbourhood Watch is one of the UK’s largest community crime prevention initiatives. It is not run by the police, but has dedicated members of staff working with it. Every Neighbourhood Watch group is different because each is owned and run by the people of its community. Members of the public and their neighbours come together to make their area a safe and pleasant place to live. Groups decide what measures to take because they know what their community needs. Local groups also draw on support from police, local authorities, fire and rescue services, the voluntary sector and other volunteers. You can find out more about how to get involved at www.ourwatch.org.uk.

Consider joining an Independent Advisory Group (IAG): An Independent Advisory Group (IAG) is a self-governing group made up of people from local communities who provide independent advice to the police. Groups reflect the make-up of our communities and members have a connection with a particular community or communities and an understanding of the issues relevant to them. Membership of the group is on a voluntary basis. IAGs cover a geographical area and only policing matters within the policing area will be discussed. To find out more about an IAG in your area, please call 101 and ask to speak to the Consultation and Engagement Officer for your area.

For more information on how to get involved in any of these initiatives, please visit Get Involved | West Midlands Police (west-midlands.police.uk) If you wish to sign up for policing alerts, please visit www.wmnow.co.uk.

Remember, if you come across a crime or observe anti-social behaviour that does not require an emergency response, please call 101 or Live Chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk. In case of emergencies, please dial 999. To report a crime anonymously, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Regards

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Message Sent By
John Reeves
(Police, Sergeant, Erdington Neighbourhood team)