Operation Enterprise, which was established by the Safer Norwich Partnership, recently won a prestigious Home Office award for successfully tackling crime. Set up to tackle alcohol and drug related crime, the operation was a response to concerns about safety at night.
A coalition of police, retailers and bar and security staff, Operation Enterprise introduced more police patrols, increased drug detections, a crackdown on irresponsible off licences, an "SOS" bus for those in need of help and support at night. Between April and December 2004 this partnership also achieved 60 per cent fall in overall violent crime. In all, crime has fallen by almost a quarter in Norfolk between 2003/04 and 2007/08.
Home Office Minister Alan Campbell said:
"I am very impressed with Norwich's partnership approach. Police, the public and retailers have demonstrated that by working together they can make a real difference to the quality of people's lives. They have helped to make Norwich city centre a more enjoyable place to socialise.
"This is precisely the kind of approach I want to see across the country. I hope others will learn from Norwich's inspirational example."
Chief Inspector Gavin Tempest one of the partner representatives hosting the visit said:
"We're pleased to welcome the Minister here in Norwich. There is a lot to talk about, not least the work over recent months to tackle the harm caused by alcohol supported by local agencies such as the Matthew Project and NORCAS.
"Safer Norwich Partnership continues developing new innovative ways to reduce offending and victimisation in the night-time economy here and Norfolk Constabulary will provide drive and commitment for that.
"Norwich remains a popular destination for pub and club goers and we will endeavour to share the good practice from our partnership which means that the City is one of the safest in the UK."
