Call points linking directly to police support are now in place in Ipswich town centre as part of a local trial, thanks to Home Office Safer Streets funding.
The idea, initiated by Suffolk Police, aims to reassure residents that help is on hand if vulnerable residents or visitors need assistance in an emergency.
Two new call points can be found outside Natwest Bank near the Cornhill in Ipswich Town Centre and Neptune Quay on Ipswich Waterfront are being tested to help increase feelings of safety and provide faster intervention by police.
Monitored by existing CCTV around the town, call handlers can view camera footage at the call points, allowing call handlers to offer on hand support and help to prevent situations fully escalating.
Councillor John Cook, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Communities and Sport, says:
“Feeling safe as we go about our daily lives in Ipswich is vital. I'm pleased that the Council has used Safer Streets 4 funding to enhance CCTVC cameras around Ipswich, and, to install two new call points linking straight to Suffolk Police emergency call handlers. These new call points – one in the town centre and another at Ipswich Waterfront – will help to ensure that Police support is quickly at hand if it’s needed.”
Inspector Nicola Turner, Ipswich Central Safer Neighbourhoods Team, adds:
“These call points are intended to offer dedicated support quickly in an emergency situation, if necessary. By linking straight to our emergency control room at the push of a button, we can quickly understand what is happening and assess the help needed.”
26 CCTV cameras around Ipswich have also been upgraded, with new signs provided this year thanks to Safer Streets 4 funding from the Home Office.
Find out more about Safer Streets at www.ipswich.gov.uk/saferstreets
Image credit – Ipswich Borough Council
