Bournemouth authorities tackle safety fears.

Bournemouth residents raised concerns at a Bournemouth Safety talk last week, held by local MP Jessica Toole.

Ms Toale, who has been holding various safety events, said: “Our statistics show the crime rates to be going down.”

She emphasised how crime rates are not as high as you think.

Jane Balchin, a Bournemouth resident, said: “I don’t feel safe in Bournemouth anymore, there are lots of drug dealings and odd behaviours around.”

“We just need presence on our streets, that’s the most important part, presence.”

The main topic of the talk was Police investment being prioritised, with 40 police officers to be deployed in the Dorset area.

Lauren Duffey, Community Safety Team Leader for the BCP council, said: “Overall, I feel Bournemouth is a safe place.”

“We work closely with the police, which allows me to see how much work they really do for the community.”

“Those who don’t know about the safety initiatives going on in the background may not feel like Bournemouth is a safe place, but behind the scenes, a lot is being done.”

There has recently been an increase in hotspot policing, specifically in the town centre area.

Jessica Toale urges residents to speak up on any issues and remain vigilant, reporting them to the police.

Neighbourhood policing is set to be the next focus, according to Ms Duffy.

The police have attempted new ways to engage with all ages through their new TikTok account, ‘Dorset Police.’

Lauren Duffey said: “I think the voice of the media is a lot bigger than the voice of authorities like the council, meaning they may not see the good that’s going on.”

“The positive stories seem to be drowned by negative ones, which is a challenge for us as local authorities.”

Lauren recommended that locals should engage more with the BCP council and police to gain clarity on their safety.

The MP claimed one of the main aims of these events is to help build trust in the police and the council.

The neighbourhood officers recommend the app ‘What3words’, which converts your location into three words to easily pass on to the police or a call handler.

Jessica Toale remains confident in the safety on our streets.