Hampstead Community Rallies Against Rising Crime
In a determined response to rising crime rates, our own Marx de Morais, Chairman Frognal & Hampstead and our Association's DCM, hosted a pivotal public meeting, signalling new ways of community engagement and safety initiatives. The event, which convened on 31 January 2024 at the Philadelphia Association, brought together residents, local leaders, and influential figures, including Greater London Authority Chairman Andrew Boff, to forge a path toward a safer Hampstead.
Jackie Samuel, a retired criminal barrister, skilfully chaired the meeting, and contributed her insights and deep knowledge of crime and its prevention. This gathering followed the successful format of a similar event in South Hampstead, initiated by our MP candidate Don Williams. Thanks to his efforts and Andrew Boff, that resulted in tangible improvements to local policing strategies. Williams shared his invaluable experience, contributing to the rich discourse of the evening. Barnet & Camden GLA candidate Julie Redmond, a former A&E nurse, added her insights about how crime has a devastating effect on our health system.
The meeting's agenda was driven by urgent community concerns such as drug-related activities, shoplifting, the alarming rise in burglaries, theft from cars, and not the least antisemitism, highlighting a perceived neglect by the police forces—even in cases where evidence was presented. We have seen a 300% increase in certain crimes in recent years and are increasingly experiencing crimes that we previously did not see in our neighbourhood.
A critical outcome of the dialogue was Don's and Marx's commitment to addressing the demands of Hampstead residents. Facing the ignorance of Camden, he pledged to ensure that we will take it in our hands, that the community becomes better informed about ongoing issues, the latest crime statistics, and available prevention schemes. If Camden doesn't care, we will! Responding to widespread calls for increased transparency and communication, we will soon install a much demanded community crime blackboard, a tangible symbol of open information exchange and engagement.
Taking community collaboration a step further, Marx is spearheading the development of a dedicated web service. This platform will enable Hampstead residents to highlight pressing issues, collaborate on solutions, and build public pressure to prompt action from those in positions to make a difference.
By providing a space for open dialogue, sharing vital information, and fostering collective action, this meeting was just the start, to use collective skills against the common threat of crime. The meeting has laid the groundwork for a proactive community stance against crime, and the urgent need for enhanced police engagement at the forefront of concerns. Andrew Boff will raise our concerns with the Met Commissioner.
We will ensure that those leading London will understand that residents are not only heard, but are also active participants in shaping their safety landscape.
