Public 'reinvigorated' by East Antrim's new policing model
Chief inspector Strephen McCauley. INLT 50-665-CON
Published: 11:51 Thursday 10 December 2015
East Antrim's new policing model is proving to be a hit with members of the public, it has been claimed.
Earlier this year, the PSNI introduced a raft of reforms to how they operate.
The shake-up, brought about by budget pressures and the need for district boundaries to align with the new super councils, saw the introduction of Local Policing Teams (LPTs) and Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs).
Speaking to the Times last Thursday, chief inspector Stephen McCauley said the introduction of the new model has "reinvigorated" officers and members of the public alike.
He added: "There are now 65 officers stationed in Larne. Split into five teams, these officers provide 24/7 service to the public.
"Their roles are still very much to respond to 999 calls, but they are alaso very community focused.
"A big part of their jobs is to interact with members of the public at all levels and get to know the real issues in the local community.
"These teams are supported by the NPT based in Carrick, which specialises in working with those people who are hardest to reach and most vulnerable.
"They are focused on places like Greenisland, Boyne Square in Larne and Sunnylands in Carrick.
"This new policing model went live in September and our officers have really grasped it with both hands.
"Morale is extremely high and members of the public have also told us they are pleased with the recent changes," chief insp McCauley concluded.