POLICE officers recently met up with colleagues from local councils and licensees at a successful engagement session in Newton Abbot to discuss community safety.

The event included colleagues from Teignbridge District Council and Newton Abbot Town Council and was aimed at strengthening efforts to create safer public spaces, particularly within the town's vibrant night-time economy.

Held at the Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot the collaborative event brought together local businesses and community safety experts to discuss proactive measures for preventing harm and promoting a secure environment for residents and visitors alike.

Inspector Jay Hawkes said: ‘We had a very productive morning with Newton Abbot's licensees.

‘The commitment shown by our local businesses to work with us in preventing harm and making our town even safer is truly commendable.

‘By working together, we can ensure Newton Abbot remains a welcoming and secure place for all who enjoy our night-time economy’.

Inspector Hawkes joined Community Safety and Safeguarding Manager for Teignbridge District Council, Becca Hewitt, to lead discussions focusing on a range of initiatives designed to enhance public safety.

These included:

• Empowering ‘walk away’ choices - attendees were briefed on the "Walk Away" initiative, a simple yet effective approach to help individuals avoid potential conflict or escalating situations.

• Targeted policing for safer areas - Sergeant Ryan Cook, from the Rural Teignbridge Neighbourhood Team, outlined renewed efforts in hotspot policing - a strategy that focuses resources on specific areas to deter crime and address public concerns.

• Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls - Inspector Hawkes delivered a vital session on how staff in licensed premises can be empowered to recognise and intervene in situations involving violence against women and girls and stalking. This contributes to a safer environment for everyone.

• Space Youth Service – Lucy Rhodes shared what she had heard from young people in the town about their feelings of safety. The comments came from innovative work the service has undertaken with groups of young people in local schools.

• Licensing updates for best practice - The council’s licensing department provided an update on current regulations, ensuring businesses are equipped with the latest information to operate responsibly and safely.

Becca Hewitt at Teignbridge District Council, said: ‘Creating safer communities is a shared responsibility.

‘This session was an excellent opportunity to share strategies and foster stronger partnerships that directly benefit our residents and contribute to a safe and thriving town’.

The event, which was attended by 27 local licensees, was also supported by Pierre Doutreligne - Newton Abbot Town Council’s Projects and Strategy Officer.

He attended the event and spoke with licensees and the council has kindly offered to host the next event.

Devon & Cornwall Police and local council colleagues expressed their appreciation for the positive engagement and look forward to hosting another event later this year to continue these vital discussions.