Ripon residents discussed local policing and community safety issues with their Police and Crime Commissioner, Julia Mulligan, at her advice surgery on Monday.
The sessions which took place at Hugh Ripley Hall, in Skellbank, gave members of the public the chance to seek advice or question Julia in her role.
The issues that were discussed include:
- Police presence in Ripon
- Police support to independent shopkeepers
- Improving support to victims of hate crime
- Concerns with late night anti-social behaviour
Julia said:
Advice surgeries allow me to get to the heart of problems in towns and villages across North Yorkshire, they provide me with firsthand knowledge about local issues such as anti-social behaviour and speeding but not only that, I get invaluable one-on-one time with members of the public, whether they need advice or want to understand about a policing issue or even to understand my role as Commissioner.
The Ripon surgery was very popular, six people made appointments, highlighting the importance of reaching out to meet with residents and talking about their experiences, to seek ways in which we can improve the support provided to those living in North Yorkshire.
Julia reiterated how important it is for residents to report all non-emergency incidents directly through the 101 number.
Julia said:
While I realise that the 101 service has suffered a number of issues affecting call waiting times, it is important that this doesn’t put people off reporting incidents. The force needs an accurate picture of issues in an area so please don’t assume that somebody else may have reported an incident, no matter how small something may appear—call 101 and log it.
A total of 27 surgeries were held from April 2016 to March 2017, where residents were invited to meet for a one-to-one talk with Julia.
Julia added:
If you have any concerns or problems regarding policing and crime matters that you would like to discuss with me, please contact my office to ask for an appointment.
Thought the police had all gone to somewhere else. Not seen one in Ripon for months. Plenty of bikes and cars riding the opposite to one way systems on Princess Road. Should do Ripon time trial from the Clock Tower down Princess Road, and then the proper way over the Bridge to the bypass. Are double yellow lines really necessary, the bus could hardly get to the Bus Station this morning because of parked cars.