Safer Neighbourhood policing

The project commenced in November 2002 and initially consisted of two Police Officers seconded from the British Transport Police to the Finsbury Park Partnership (FPP).
Created to help ease the policing problems of a tri-borough area and to ensure continuity of service, the project quickly established an element of confidence and trust within the local community. Independent of mainstream policing and accountable to the community the policing project was unique. The two uniformed officers would patrol the central part of Finsbury Park covering areas in Hackney, Haringey and Islington whilst concentrating on addressing the ‘root causes’ of crime through Problem Orientated Policing (POP).

The Project Today
The Finsbury Park Partnership formally ceased to function at the end of March 2006, it has been replaced by Finfuture. The introduction of local Safer Neighbourhood Teams has greatly improved the uniform police presence in Finsbury Park; however, there remain issues with boundaries, co-ordination and an effective area strategy .

The aim of the project today is to co-ordinate an effective policing and crime strategy for the area, utilising all the available resources and encouraging effective cross-boundary co- operation by instigating joint initiatives.  Working closely with the Safer Neighbourhood Teams, the three Councils, the community and utilising the four years of experience and knowledge ascertained through policing Finsbury Park.  The role now is leaning towards that of a Safer Town Centre Co-ordinator which is something that Finsbury Park has never had, although various studies have long indicated that this would be beneficial. Schemes such as Alertboxes for businesses and working closely with the Business Forum will help to ensure that the businesses and residents of Finsbury Park receive the best possible service.

The project is managed by Finfuture and is regulated by the Community Safety/Crime Focus Group; this consists of representatives from the three Police Boroughs, the three local councils and Finfuture. The project also closely liaises with local residents, businesses and other community bodies.

To further enhance community relations the project is now based away from the police station and is located in the new FinFuture building on Seven Sisters Road.
If you require any assistance or advice then please do not hesitate to contact Paul Gale on the below telephone number, there is an answerphone facility and your call will be returned. Alternatively you can use the email or visit the Finfuture building.
Paul can be contacted on 020 7281 9375 or pcpaulgale@btconnect.co