Law and Order

Provision of adequate protection from crime, especially for the elderly and vulnerable should be a priority. With easy motorway access, and the promise of a quick getaway for criminals, residents of the Meriden constituency are particularly at risk from this growing problem. Recent events have highlighted our vulnerability to the external threat of terrorism, with Birmingham International Airport and the NEC inside the constituency, it is essential that we don’t lose sight of the risks.

‘ASBO culture’ has caused residents no end of worry and, in many cases, fear for both property and personal safety. This worrying trend must be reversed through vigilance and thorough policing. The Council has drawn up a strategy for dealing with anti-social behaviour which includes dispersal orders for gangs such as those congregating in parks or outside shops. Residents can call West Midlands Police for ongoing, non-emergency concerns on 0845 113 5000.

A particularly unpleasant, but ever growing crime in the country is domestic violence, I was shocked to learn that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men suffer from domestic violence and domestic violence accounts for a quarter of all violent crime. I am co-chairman of MABL (make a better life trust), an organisation which provides support and advice for victims and their families. After lobbying hard for ten years, I am pleased to say that a refuge for victims of domestic violence has finally been opened by the Council in the Borough.

“Solihull is taking a lead against domestic violence with a Multi Agency Domestic Violence Strategy.”

Car crime is a major problem, especially in the car parks of the airport, the station and the NEC. A shrewd criminal will look out for things like keys placed on a hall table in clear view of the letterbox. Small changes in routine, like placing keys elsewhere will at least partly alleviate the problem, and discourage crime in the constituency. Drug abuse is a cause and not a symptom of car theft, with Solihull town centre, surprisingly to some, being a popular area for drug dealers, who prey on the young.

‘Distraction burglary’ is also a problem. A spate of burglaries in the constituency involving bogus officials, who falsely claim to be from the council or a utility company before entering an elderly person's property and making off with valuables and cash, have occurred recently. If you are not expecting a caller you should not open the door and if you are suspicious about someone in your street you should call the police. They can always check if the council are sending someone out. Bogus officials usually call on weekdays between 9am and 5pm and particularly during the afternoon.

It is also a good idea to join a neighbourhood watch scheme. Ninety seven per cent of households broken into in the Solihull area are not members of the scheme. If you are interested in becoming a member you should contact Solihull Police Station on 0121 712 6112.

FOR ALL NON-EMERGENCIES AND ENQUIRIES CALL WEST MIDLANDS POLICE ON: 0845 113 5000

Law and Order

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