Bexley Borough Commander Commendations recognise L&Q staff achievements

On Tuesday 29th March, employees of housing association L&Q were amongst those honoured at a Borough Commander’s Commendations Ceremony hosted by Bexley Borough Police. Hazel McQueeney, Michele Forbes and Cheryl Keen received commendations for their outstanding professionalism, partnership working and commitment to local concerns which has seen a dramatic reduction in the number of anti-social behaviour incidents in the Ridley Road area, Welling.

L&Q worked with the police, Bexley Neighbourhood Services and other partners to address the concerns of residents in an area that was receiving approximately 16 ASB complaints a week.

The majority of problems were located in the square at Ridley Road, which was a place for large numbers of youths to loiter. There were incidents of damage to property, vandalism and youth violence.

The needs of residents were identified at a public consultation, after which L&Q oversaw an environmental clean up of the square. Repairs were made to damaged fences and walls, and dumped rubbish and graffiti was removed. Improved lighting and the removal of planters made the square more open as it reduced the areas in which people could loiter.

In October 2009, a six month Welling Dispersal Zone was implemented, resulting in a significant and sustained reduction in anti-social behaviour complaints. Whilst the zone was in operation large numbers were dispersed and the approach resulted in ASB calls reducing by 73%. A month after the dispersal zone was withdrawn ASB calls had been reduced by 88%.

The engagement of the local young people was essential to the long-term success of the operation. L&Q and Bexley Council joint-funded a number of schemes aimed at supporting the young people, including a 12 week motor bike maintenance project which was such a success it is currently being repeated.

Detective Superintendent Darren Williams, Acting Borough Commander said, “These ceremonies are about recognising extraordinary people, doing extraordinary things and who have contributed towards keeping the people who live, work and visit Bexley safe. I am proud of our partnership working with the Local Authority and L&Q who are as determined as we are, to make a difference to the quality of life of local people.”

The ceremony was attended by Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Val Clarke, and Commander Dave Zinzan, who has policing responsibility for South East London, as well as friends and family of those receiving Commendations.

Tom Bremner, L&Q Neighbourhood Services Director for the South East said, “The Borough Commander’s Commendation is testament to Hazel, Michele and Cheryl’s achievements over the past two years. They have worked tirelessly with colleagues from Bexley Council and the Police in making Ridley Road a better place to live – tackling anti-social behaviour and providing an alternative for young people. It’s a great example of what can be achieved when we all pull together”