Meet the Met Event Draws Strong Community Response

A new community policing initiative has received an enthusiastic response after more than 100 residents engaged with officers during the first Meet the Met event in Southfield on Sun 13th Sept between 3-5pm.

The event was developed following feedback from members of the Southfield Ward Panel, who said they wanted to see their local policing team become more visible and accessible in busy community spaces rather than through traditional "Cuppa with a Copper" sessions.

In response, local neighbourhood officers launched the first Meet the Met event on Acton Green Common, combining community engagement with high-visibility patrols. Residents were able to speak directly with officers about local issues, receive crime prevention advice, learn about the Met Engage platform, and collect personal alarms and anti-spiking kits.

The event generated more than 100 positive interactions, with many residents taking the opportunity to discuss concerns affecting their neighbourhood and receive reassurance from officers patrolling the area.

Police Sergeant Christopher Robinson, East Acton and Southfield Wards, said:

"The idea behind Meet the Met was simple: to take policing to where our communities are. We listened to feedback from residents who told us they wanted to see more of their local officers in the places they live, work and spend time. It was fantastic to speak with so many people, hear what matters most to them and provide practical crime prevention advice. The positive response shows there is a real appetite for visible neighbourhood policing and meaningful conversations with local officers."

The success of the event highlights the value local communities place on approachable, visible policing and direct engagement with their neighbourhood teams.

The next Meet the Met event is planned for Sat 10th Oct at 3pm at Southfield Recreation Ground, giving more residents the opportunity to meet their local officers, raise concerns and help shape local policing priorities.