A message from Superintendent Karen Ravenscroft, Middlesbrough's District Commander
April 2011
16 months ago I announced that I was delighted to have been given the opportunity of being the District Commander at Middlesbrough and that I was looking forward to working with the staff, partners and communities, and to continuing the excellent work which had been achieved over the previous two years. Much has happened during that time, not least a change in government and a comprehensive spending review which has heralded significant cuts in public spending; including ‘in year’ cuts in budget for the district. Despite these cuts and other significant changes to the organisation such as the innovative partnership with Steria, Middlesbrough District has seen its most successful year to date in terms of reductions in crime and anti social behaviour. This would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of all the officers, staff and partners who work within Middlesbrough District. Being the District Commander has lived up to all my expectations and I am very proud to hold such a key role within Cleveland Police.
The following twelve months will bring substantial challenge but I am confident that the District will continue to build upon its success. I know that local communities have concerns about the impact of budget cuts on policing activity and would like to take this opportunity to re-affirm my commitment to Neighbourhood Policing. Neighbourhood Policing has been a significant contributory factor in our success and will remain our key strategy, with problem-solving in partnership continuing to be the cornerstone of policing in the District.
With our partners, we will seek to protect our more vulnerable members of society, reduce crime and address those issues that matter the most to our communities, including anti-social behaviour - particularly the type fuelled by drugs and alcohol.
