DIRECT involvement from members of the community is needed to make the borough a safer place, says Richmond Police and Community Consultative Group (PCCG) as it appeals for new members.

Organisations representing sections of the community are invited to come forward and join this forum which debates crime prevention and policing matters.

John Bell, a former chair of the PCCG, said: "The PCCG is the principal channel for public consultation on policing matters as they affect the borough. We also contribute to London police priorities. We add our voice to the uphill struggle to maintain an adequate level of policing in the borough. It is vitally important that the membership reflects the views of as wide a cross section of the diverse elements of the borough as possible. We especially need representation from minority groups and young people."

Richmond police are wholly committed to the initiative and stress the importance of having public support and co-operation to achieve goals aimed at improving public safety and reducing crime.

Borough Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Richard Gargini said: "We need a wide spread of experience and a range of opinions to enable us to better respond to the needs of the community. The PCCG provides an excellent forum for people to put forward their concerns, exchange ideas and make a truly positive contribution to their neighbourhood."

The PCCG insists that it is not a mere talking shop, it can make a real impact. Chief Supt Gargini said the reopening of Teddington police station was driven by the group. He added: "Senior officers hear directly what the people say. The Domestic Violence Forum started as a subgroup of the PCCG."

Local police liaison groups and a youth crime conference have also been set up now. Richmond Council is also positive about the PCCG’s role in community relations and effective policing. Council leader, Cllr Tony Arbour, said: "The police have a hard job to do and we need more officers in our borough. The council will continue to lobby hard for that to happen. However there is something we can all do. By working together in partnership, all of us, can really make our borough a safer place for all."

PCCG meets once every two months at York House, the meetings start at 7pm and last approximately two hours. They are open to the public, who are welcome to ask questions during part of the meeting. The next meetings this year will take place on July 29th, September 30th and November 25th. Agendas for all meetings can be accessed in advance in all borough libraries.

For more information and an application form, contact Juliet Taylor on 8891 7155.

or email j.taylor@richmond.gov.uk.