Harehills ❤️ Love

Harehills is a community that faces its challenges, but it’s also a community that comes together to find solutions. The recent CommUnity Harehills initiative is a perfect example of this spirit, bringing together residents, police, and partner organizations to address concerns and build a stronger, safer neighbourhood.

While some may understandably be wary of police presence, CommUnity Harehills took a proactive approach to fostering positive relationships. The initiative involved a two-day operation targeting properties potentially associated with organized crime, demonstrating a commitment to tackling issues that affect the community.

“The CommUnity Harehills initiative is about working collaboratively with partners to tackle organised criminality across the communities we serve, in line with concerns raised from the local community.

“These days of action demonstrates how police and partners will ruthlessly pursue and disrupt all forms of criminality which causes harm in the local community. The police will continue to work with partners to target and disrupt organised criminality to keep communities safe and feeling safe.”

Inspector Alastair Nicholls, who heads the Leeds East Neighbourhood Policing Team (sourced from asianstandard.co.uk)

CommUnity Harehills went beyond just enforcement. It culminated in a free family fun day at the Compton Centre, providing a unique opportunity for residents to engage with police officers and partner organizations in a relaxed and positive setting.

The fun day was a resounding success, with an impressive turnout from the community. Families enjoyed a variety of activities, including:

• Bike repair service
• Reading, Arts and Crafts
• Education, Training and Employment Support
• Financial Support and Winter coats for adults
• Energy Support
• Blood Pressure Checks
• Youth provisions (youth services)
• Crime Prevention information, advice, and support

Young people looked to be having a great time

This positive interaction helped to break down barriers and foster trust between the police and the community. It provided a platform for dialogue, allowing residents to voice their concerns and learn about the efforts being made to address them.

“Events like these are crucial for building strong relationships and promoting safety within our community, enabling communities to also be aware of the all the support and provisions available and on offer in the locality and surrounding areas.

The success of free community events like these, highlights the importance of community engagement and the positive impact of bringing people together to learn, have fun, whilst obtaining any support and advice they may need.

A special thanks to all involved in planning the event, all who attended to support and communities for attending. We look forward to holding further community events in the future as we continue to build a safer, stronger, and inclusive CommUnity Harehills”.

Acting Sergeant Bradley, Lead for CommUnity Harehills – Clear, Hold, Build project, from West Yorkshire Police release

CommUnity Harehills demonstrates that positive change is possible when different stakeholders come together with a shared goal. By fostering dialogue, building trust, and working collaboratively, Harehills is taking steps towards a safer and more connected community.