This research aimed to identify the issues and possible solutions with regard to crime, anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime in the St Werburghs neighbourhood.

To this end, the researchers collected and analysed the crime statistics for the neighbourhood, consulted various local organisations, and held a household survey among local residents. The involvement of the local organisations and residents played an essential role in the research project, as they are confronted on a daily basis with the problems of crime and feeling insecure.

The findings from the project fed into the development of a community safety action plan to make St Werburgh a safer neighbourhood in which to live, work and play. The findings also enabled the residents to apply for targeted funding to enhance community safety where appropriate.

Compared with other Bristol neighbourhoods, St Werburghs is by no means a problem area. However, it does experience a displacement overspill from neighbouring areas where intensive interventions have been put in place, particularly with regard to prostitution and drug dealing and (mis) use. This highlights the importance of St Werburghs’ representatives working more closely with people in neighbouring communities.

There is an abundant existence of “people power” in the community of St Werburghs. Local residents show a huge interest in safeguarding the neighbourhood’s future and are willing to put direct effort into achieving improvements. This makes St Werburghs considerably more resistant to crime.

Cities Research Centre
Mr Henry Shaftoe (Senior lecturer housing and urban studies), tel. +44 117 32 83082

01/02/2003

Nick Williams and Henry Shaftoe

research

Urban Policy > Security & crime prevention

Sense of insecurity, Tackling crime