Listening to communities and turning conversations into action 

Last week, I spent time with residents, community leaders, councillors, neighbourhood policing teams, businesses and justice partners across Somerset and Bristol. Through three Local Community Network (LCN) meetings and a visit to a residential women’s centre, I heard directly about the issues that matter most to local people-from rural crime, retail crime and antisocial behaviour to rehabilitation and community safety. While the conversations were wide-ranging, the message was clear: people want visible policing, effective partnerships and practical action that delivers safe and secure communities.

Strengthening rural policing 

Across the Levels and Moors, Burnham, and the Glastonbury, Avalon and Poldens area, residents spoke openly about rural crime, antisocial behaviour, fraud and the need for more visible neighbourhood policing. It was encouraging to share how Avon and Somerset Police is strengthening local policing while listening directly to the priorities that matter most to each community. 

In Glastonbury, conversations focused on antisocial behaviour and village burglaries, alongside ideas for stronger patrols, community events and closer working with parish councils. In Burnham, I heard about partnership work to tackle antisocial behaviour, unauthorised encampments and youth diversion activities, showing how prevention and enforcement can work hand in hand. 

Supporting businesses in Bridgwater  

My Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Kevin Slocombe, met with businesses and police in Bridgwater to discuss the impact of retail crime, antisocial behaviour, homelessness and public drug use. These conversations reinforced the importance of working in partnership to keep our town centres safe and thriving. 

The discussion focused on practical solutions, including better reporting, stronger information sharing and joint problem-solving between businesses, police and local partners. A shared commitment emerged to tackle repeat issues, improve confidence and create a safer environment for everyone who lives, works and shops in the town. 

Supporting women to rebuild their lives 

I also had the privilege of visiting Eden House in Bristol with Lord Timpson, Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending. Seeing first-hand the life-changing support available to women leaving custody was a powerful reminder that preventing crime also means investing in rehabilitation, early intervention and opportunities for people to rebuild their lives. 

Eden House provides trauma-informed residential support for women involved in, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system. During the visit, we spoke with residents and discussed the challenges many women face, including domestic abuse, poor mental health, homelessness and substance misuse. We also explored the importance of strong partnership working between support providers, police, local authorities and my office. 

Turning conversations into action 

Every conversation helps shape my work and the delivery of my Police and Crime Plan. These visits are not just about hearing concerns; they are about making sure the plan stays grounded in the realities people face and in the solutions that will make the biggest difference. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences.