Rookie PC learns the local ropes

A STUDENT officer gained a sense of Oldham’s community spirit as part of police attempts to forge a strong bond with residents.

PC Natalie Eastwood visited residents in Oldham West as part of her introduction to neighbourhood policing.

PC Anthony Leicester took the rookie to Westwood Primary School, St Hilda’s Primary School, Neville House Nursing Home, Neville Street, and to meet Glynis Jones, security management specialist at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

Police in Oldham are working to deliver the Policing Pledge, giving people a clear minimum standard of service they can expect from their local police.

They want residents’ input to ensure the service is focused on the needs of local communities and addressing the issues that matter most to them.

Ms Jones said: “We have a very good relationship with the Oldham West Neighbourhood Policing Team at the hospital, and for new police officers like Natalie to understand what type of problems we face can only be beneficial to us all.”

Insp Alan Humphries said: “Neighbourhood policing puts officers at the heart of the community so it’s essential that we make links with our residents, listening to what issues they have and responding to them.

“Taking PC Eastwood on a tour of Oldham West highlights the importance of working with the community so we can make sure we do our jobs to the best of our ability, meeting the needs of the community we serve.”

PC Eastwood said: “My time with the Oldham West team has been really valuable and given me an insight into what neighbourhood policing is all about. Getting to know the local community is key to building a two-way interaction between local police and residents, ensuring we address the issues that matter most to them.”

To find out more about the police pledge visit gmp.police.uk/policingpledge