‘Safer Communities’ initiative benefits Old Dean residents

Camberley-based housing association Accent Peerless Ltd joined forces with the local Fire Service and Surrey Police recently in a proactive step to make the Old Dean estate, and the local community, a safer and more pleasant place to live. Accent Peerless staff carried out estate inspections looking for things such as untidy or unkempt areas, abandoned vehicles and graffiti. They were also on-hand for residents to come along to discuss housing issues, and raise concerns about personal safety or anti-social behaviour. At the same time, the Police and Fire Brigade were talking to residents about general crime and fire prevention. Similar initiatives have previously been trialled in two other areas in Surrey and three more are planned for the rest of year, all of which aim to benefit residents from developments and communities across the region. Paul Blomfield, Community Safety Officer at Accent Peerless, helped to organise the event and received some very positive feedback from residents. He commented: “We received lots of enquiries from residents and many said how much they appreciated our presence in the community. Many are unable or reluctant to seek help and some don’t even know it’s available, so opportunities to meet face-to-face are hugely important to them and to us.” For more information about Accent Peerless and the services they provide, visit www.accentpeerless.co.uk -ENDS- Words: 226