Safer Streets
Specifically targeting Birtley and Lamesley, Safer Streets in Gateshead uses a multi-agency, problem solving approach to community safety in addressing three priority areas:
- Reducing antisocial behaviour (ASB), crime, and the impact on the local community
- Improving environmental and housing standards in the local area
- Improving community facilities and access to services, including those for young people
In the coming weeks and months, we will provide further details as to how we will work towards achieving these priorities by tackling issues at their root cause, and providing rapid and responsive solutions to community issues. We will do this with the support of a broad range of key partners, including the council's Housing and Environmental Services teams, Northumbria Police, elected members and mental health services.
We have already begun having a positive impact by:
- making vacant properties more secure to avoid further ASB
- signposting residents in need to community mental health services to help ensure they maintain their tenancy
- working with local Police and Fire and Rescue Services to identify ASB hot spots, and increasing patrols
- liaising with private landlords to ensure homes are habitable, and repairs are carried out when necessary
- directing offenders, in partnership with Community Payback, to areas in need of an environmental clean up
- bringing community and voluntary groups together to identify programmes which tackle ASB and improve the area
- working with schools to get involved in The Big Clean Up
Reporting antisocial behaviour
ASB can include issues such as noise nuisance, animal nuisance, harassment, and rubbish accumulation. It can have a very detrimental effect on communities and should be reported.
If you witness criminal behaviour, such as hate crime, domestic abuse, drug dealing or criminal damage, report it to the police immediately.
Safer Streets Community Fund
The Safer Streets Community Fund offers grants of between £250 up to £1,000 for any organisations delivering services in Birtley and Lamesley. The only condition is the project must contribute towards the Safer Streets priorities.
To apply for funding, please complete the application form (PDF) [35KB] and return it to saferstreets@gateshead.gov.uk.
While we can't guarantee that all bids will be successful, the team will offer all applications further advice and guidance and do what they can to support the project.
Volunteering with Safer Streets
Safer Streets are looking for passionate individuals to work alongside us and bring to us their knowledge of the local community you live in. We have a range of volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, meet people and work on activities and events that will benefit you and the local community.
If you are interested in getting involved, or if you'd just like further information or have any questions, please email the team at saferstreets@gateshead.gov.uk.