Look out for our Safer Neighbourhood Officers patrolling your towns and villages. They would love to meet you.

They patrol across Central Bedfordshire on foot to provide a visible presence, and engage with residents and businesses, to understand concerns and find resolutions.

Their aim is to provide safety and reassurance to help make Central Bedfordshire a great place to live and work.

The teams day is always varied, from focusing on problem areas or individuals in support of our Anti-Social Behaviour Officers, to advising colleagues of the presence of new fly-tips and graffiti.

They also liaise with our CCTV team, working with the police to strengthen intelligence, and engage young people to promote good behaviour and build relationships.

They respond by investigating complaints and reported offences, and by signposting to relevant services and other partner agencies.

They also have enforcement powers, including issuing Fixed Penalty Notices for offences such as littering and Penalty Charge Notices for some parking restrictions. Where necessary they can serve legal warning and notices under anti-social behaviour legislation, and complete witness statements to support court prosecutions.

You will see them out and about in your area and they would be delighted if you have time to stop to chat to them about your concerns, or just to say hello.