Agencies Team Up to Keep Swindon Safe during World Cup

The police, Wiltshire Fire and Rescue, Swindon Borough Council, NHS Swindon and the inSwindon town centre management team are working in partnership with communities and others, including the Wiltshire Criminal Justice Board, focusing on a range of Community Safety issues. Agencies will be addressing and taking action on crime and anti-social behaviour, responsible drinking, sexual health and domestic violence over the coming weeks.

Yellow ‘Behave or Be Banned’ posters and cards have already been distributed around the town’s pubs and clubs, and to football supporters via Swindon Town Football Club. These carry a warning to people that they risk being banned from licensed premises and the town centre if they commit crime or are involved in anti-social behaviour.

Superintendent Kier Pritchard from the Police in Swindon said:

“We want everyone to enjoy the World Cup tournament in safety, whether they are at home or out and about visiting licensed premises, and we’ll be working very closely with our partners to encourage people to drink sensibly and show considerate behaviour to others over the coming weeks. Crime and anti-social behaviour, including incidents of domestic violence, will not be tolerated - we will be vigilant and incidents will be robustly dealt with, as we work to keep our communities safe.”

Cllr Brian Mattock, Cabinet Member for Housing, Community and Partnerships, added:

“Our Community Safety agencies share a common goal at all times – to keep the borough a safe place to be, whether you’re a football fan, or not. By working together, the different agencies can mobilise considerable strength to tackle those quality of life issues that matter to us throughout the year and during the World Cup.”