Over 200 residents, community groups, and local leaders gathered on Monday, 27 January, to address the pressing issues of drug and knife crime in Brent. The meeting, organised by the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board, served as a platform for community members to voice concerns, ask questions, and learn about ongoing efforts to enhance safety within the borough.
The event featured senior police officers from the Metropolitan Police, who discussed current initiatives designed to reduce crime. One of the key strategies highlighted was Project ADDER, an early-intervention programme aimed at reducing drug-related offences.
Under Project ADDER, individuals arrested and identified as struggling with addiction are referred directly to the VIA community drug and alcohol service. Recent data presented at the meeting showed that 57% of Brent’s prolific offenders are connected to Class A drugs, underscoring the need for robust intervention and preventative measures.
Chief Superintendent Sara Leach, along with Chief Inspectors, Inspectors, Sergeants, and the Territorial Support Group (TSG), provided insights into their ongoing operations to curb crime. They also encouraged attendees to share feedback and suggestions on enhancing community safety and fostering stronger ties between residents and law enforcement.
During the discussion, residents identified specific hotspot areas prone to criminal activity and offered various suggestions to reduce drug use and knife carrying. Proposals included increasing community drop-in sessions with local police, implementing youth outreach programmes, and introducing early education initiatives in schools to discourage involvement in crime from a young age.
Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, praised the collaborative spirit of the community and its critical role in combating crime. “Creating a safer Brent is a shared goal for all of us. The police and council have crucial roles to play, but the power of our community should never be underestimated. The tremendous community spirit in this borough, as demonstrated in tonight’s meeting, is our greatest asset that must be harnessed and valued. By working together, we can effectively tackle drug and knife crime and make Brent a safer place for everyone,” he stated.
In response to the feedback from the meeting, the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board committed to strengthening its partnership with the police to address the concerns raised by residents. This collaborative approach is expected to result in more targeted efforts to reduce crime and foster a safer environment for all.
“By working together, we can effectively tackle drug, knife crime, and make Brent a safer place for everyone.”
Cllr Muhammed Butt, Leader of the council
For those who could not attend the meeting, a recording of the event and presentation slides will be made available on the Brent Safer Neighbourhood Board’s webpage starting Thursday, 30 January. The board encourages residents to stay informed and involved in future initiatives aimed at improving community safety.
