CommunitySafe.gov.uk

Merton Police have launched Operation Lockdown, a three month burglary initiative which will employ a range of tactics to disrupt burglary, gain intelligence and arrest and convict offenders in identified hotspots across the Borough. Whilst the number of burglary offences across the Borough remain relatively low, there has been a recent rise on other wards in the number of opportunist burglaries where entry has been gained through open windows and unlocked doors. Many of these could be avoided. Residents are reminded to lock doors and windows when they go out, to keep ground floor doors and windows closed and secure when they go to bed and not to leave expensive and valuable items in view of passers by. Simple measures and some extra care will go along way to preventing you from becoming a victim of burglary. NEW REPORTING LINE FOR VICTIMS AND WITNESSES OF HATE CRIME Tackling hate crime is a priority for Merton, which is why Merton has teamed up with Stop Hate UK to provide emotional and practical support for anyone, who has experienced hate crime. Whatever your age, race, disability, sexual orientation or whether you are transgender, no one has the right to intimidate, hurt or harass you because they perceive you to be different. Merton defines a hate crime as a ‘criminal offence which is perceived, by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by a hostility or prejudice based on a person’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion or disability’. If you feel you have been a victim of this crime you can report it to Stop Hate UK 24 hours a day. Stop Hate UK are an independent charity and everything you tell them is kept confidential. You have the option to remain anonymous if you wish. Stop Hate UK can be contacted by phone, email, text, post and online. Stop Hate UK can speak to victims about hate crime in their preferred language if required. Telephone: 0800 138 1625 Website: www.stophateuk.org Email: talk@stophateuk.org The team continues to work with the local community and visitors to West Barnes Ward to ensure public safety and West Barnes continues to be one of the safest wards in London. If you have any concerns re crime or Anti Social Behaviour please contact the team on 0208 721 2454 or email WestBarnes.SNT@met.police.uk Sgt Graham Chapman 54VW