Safer Streets Summer Initiative launches with visible action

Offenders, police and partners hit the streets of Hyson Green in a major day of action tackling crime, antisocial behaviour and community safety head-on.

The event marked the start of the Safer Streets Summer Initiative in Nottingham, as partners came together to clean up the area, engage with residents, and deliver visible justice in the heart of the community.

The operation, coordinated by Nottinghamshire’s Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC), Nottinghamshire Police, and Immediate Justice provider Red Snapper, saw offenders on the Immediate Justice scheme carry out community-based reparation activity in and around Hyson Green.

Offenders took part in environmental clean-ups and landscaping work at Kirkstead Street Playground, helping to improve visibility, reduce antisocial behaviour and restore pride in public spaces.

The work forms part of the national Safer Streets Summer Initiative, which sees Police and Crime Commissioner’s and Chief Constables across England and Wales lead coordinated action to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour in key towns and city areas over the summer months.

Hyson Green is one of ten Nottinghamshire locations receiving intensive support through the campaign, which is underpinned by the Government’s Hotspot Policing Fund and aims to deliver visible policing, local engagement, and meaningful consequences for those causing harm in our communities.

Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden, who joined partners on the day, said: “This was neighbourhood policing and partnership working at its very best – visible, active, and driven by what local people want to see.

“It’s exactly the kind of work we need to keep building trust and pride in our communities.

“Through Immediate Justice and hotspot policing, we’re not just responding to crime – we’re preventing it, and showing that unacceptable behaviour has real consequences.

“The Safer Streets Summer Initiative gives us the tools to do more of this work and, as we’ve seen in Hyson Green, it’s already making a difference.”

The Safer Streets Summer Initiative is not just about enforcement – it’s about collaboration.

The programme is designed to bring together a broad range of partners, including public health teams, local authorities, police, and voluntary and community sector organisations, to tackle the root causes of antisocial behaviour and improve wellbeing in hotspot areas.

This joined-up approach ensures that the response is not only reactive, but also preventative – offering support and early intervention for those at risk of offending or exploitation.

By aligning resources and intelligence across agencies, Safer Streets Summer creates a platform for shared problem-solving and community-led action.

Local health teams are helping to address underlying issues like substance misuse and mental health, while youth services and third-sector partners are providing diversionary activities and outreach support.

This integrated model is designed to leave a lasting legacy of safer public spaces, stronger local partnerships, and improved trust in public services – all key pillars in the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.

Superintendent for Nottingham City, Chris Pearson, added: “The Safer Streets Summer initiative allows us to focus resources and energy into areas where we know residents want to see change.

“Hyson Green is a vibrant and diverse community, and this day of action was a fantastic example of how targeted enforcement and community engagement can go hand-in-hand to deliver lasting impact.

“Tackling antisocial behaviour and making our public spaces feel safer is a top priority – and we’ll continue this work across the summer.”

The Immediate Justice scheme has seen more than 750 referrals since its launch in January 2024, with offenders taking part in everything from litter picking to supporting community initiatives – many of whom report that it’s helped them reflect on their actions and make positive changes.

Steff Edwards, Red Snapper Managed Services Contracts Manager said: RSMS is proud to be delivering the Immediate Justice scheme in Nottinghamshire, working in close partnership with local police, councils and community organisations to provide visible, restorative outcomes that benefit both communities and individuals.

“The Safer Streets Summer initiative highlights the value of coordinated, preventative approaches to community safety.

“We’re pleased to contribute by delivering Immediate Justice placements in areas most in need of support.

“Visible reparation not only helps deter antisocial behaviour but also offers participants the opportunity to make amends. Many tell us that making a positive difference in the local community is something they genuinely appreciate.”

Further Safer Streets Summer walkabouts and days of action are scheduled to take place in areas across the county, including Mansfield, Arnold, Beeston and West Bridgford, as the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire continues its push to strengthen neighbourhood policing, tackle antisocial behaviour, and ensure safer, stronger communities for all.