“Crime victims and vulnerable will be protected” – police commissioner

CHESHIRE’S police and crime commissioner is reassuring communities that vulnerable people and victims of crime will be protected during the Coronavirus outbreak.
Warrington-based PCC David Keane says those in need will continue to be supported by vital services commissioned by his office throughout the pandemic.
Although face-to-face contact has ceased, victims support services Cheshire CARES, the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC), restorative justice provider Remedi and under-18s victims’ service Got Your Back will continue to offer telephone support.
The Commissioner also says he has had assurances from chief constable Darren Martland that plans are in place for Cheshire police to continue to deliver a vital service to the public as the ongoing crisis develops.
He is welcoming the announcement from government that police officers and support staff are considered ‘key workers’ during the crisis and will be supported with child care so, where possible, they can continue in their roles to keep Cheshire safe.
He said: “My number one priority as your police and crime commissioner is to ensure we continue to provide a service to our communities during these unprecedented times.
“I am talking regularly to the chief constable and I am assured that he is managing the situation effectively and has resilience plans in place that can be adapted as the situation develops.
“Officers and staff at Cheshire police, my office staff and those working in our commissioned services are doing everything they can to support vulnerable people and victims of crimes.
“I am also aware that many members of the public across Cheshire are rising to the challenge, providing practical support and assistance to the most vulnerable and isolated in our communities, which I strongly applaud, especially as we use all resources available to us including our excellent neighbourhood policing service.
“To play our part in minimising the spread of the virus, I have also ensured my office is limiting personal contact. My staff are working remotely and I have cancelled all public engagements for the foreseeable future. However, my team will operate as normally as possible during this period and you can continue to contact us via telephone or email.
“Please continue to follow the advice and guidance issued by the government and Public Health England, stay safe and to look out for the most vulnerable members of our society during this difficult time.”