As your Labour Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich, I am proud to share the government’s comprehensive plans to restore neighbourhood policing and introduce new powers through the Crime and Policing Bill. Our community deserves to feel safe and secure, and Labour is committed to making this a reality.

Labour’s vision for policing is clear: when you call the police, they should come. When you report a crime, it should be properly investigated. Our Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee will restore patrols to our town centres by recruiting thousands of new police officers, police community support officers (PCSOs), and special constables. This means more visible policing, stronger community ties, and a named officer for every community. In Crewe and Nantwich, this will translate to a more responsive and trusted police presence, ensuring that our streets are safe and our residents feel protected.

Antisocial behaviour has plagued our communities for too long. Labour’s introduction of Respect Orders will give the police, local councils, registered housing providers and a range of other agencies with the power to place severe restrictions on the behaviour of those who carry out antisocial behaviour, making my constituents lives a misery in some cases . These orders will target those who engage in street drinking, drug use, and other disruptive behaviours, restoring peace and respect in our neighbourhoods. For Crewe and Nantwich, this means reclaiming our public spaces and ensuring that everyone can enjoy them without fear or intimidation.

Shoplifting too has become rife in even our small local shops, with criminals acting with impunity thanks in part to the previous government’s hollowing out of policing and their introduction of a £200 threshold, below which, shockingly, shoplifting would not be investigated. Labour’s action plan includes tougher penalties for offenders and enhanced police powers to tackle these issues head-on. By prioritising the urgent attendance of police at scenes of shoplifting and increasing hotspot patrols, we will deter would-be criminals and support our local retailers. We will also introduce a new criminal offence of assault against a shopworker, and we will scrap the Tories £200 shoplifters charter.

Violence against women and girls is a stain on our society that must be eradicated. Labour is committed to tackling this issue with a multi-faceted approach. Our plans include the establishment of specialist rape units in every police force and a greater focus on prevention and support for victims. In Crewe and Nantwich, this will mean more resources dedicated to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice. We will work tirelessly to create a community where women and girls can live without fear of violence or harassment.

These plans are about making Crewe and Nantwich a place where families can thrive, businesses can prosper, and everyone can feel safe. By restoring neighbourhood policing, introducing Respect Orders, tackling shoplifting and fly tipping, and addressing violence against women and girls, we are building a community that stands strong against crime and antisocial behaviour.

Together, we can take back our streets and create a brighter, safer future for all. Join us in this mission and let’s make Crewe and Nantwich a beacon of safety and community spirit.