Community leaders gather in Watford to discuss local issues

Members of the community came together at Watford police station recently to have open and honest discussions about local issues.

Hosted by the Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), the Community Safety and Engagement Board (CSEBs) brought together Community Advisors, police and partner agencies to share insight, raise concerns and help shape how policing responds to local issues.

The forum provided and opportunity for constructive conversations on a range of concerns, with a particular focus on hate crime. Topics were brought forward by board members, demonstrating the value of community-led engagement in shaping local policing discussions.

The evening also enabled attendees to gain a clearer understanding of legislative framework, policing responsibilities, and decision-making processes.

Watford Neighbourhood Inspector Simon Cooper, who chaired the meeting, said: “The forum continues to play an important role in fostering positive relationships between Watford police and the communities it serves, providing a platform for meaningful discussion, challenge, and collaboration to improve community safety across Watford.

“As a direct result of engagement through the board, two additional third party reporting centres have also been recruited, increasing opportunities for members of the public to report hate crime and further strengthening support pathways for victims within the community.

“This continued partnership working highlights the positive impact of listening to communities, building understanding, and working together to address local concerns.”

CSEBs were launched across Hertfordshire in June and will be held on a quarterly basis.

Community Advisors are a network of contacts who play a vital role in helping the constabulary understand the diverse needs and experiences of Hertfordshire’s communities. They are trusted links between the police and the public. 

More information about Community Advisors and CSEBs at www.herts.police.uk/CommunityAdvisors. 

The boards do not replace existing reporting channels which can be found at herts.police.uk/report.