University crime survey for York residents (From York Press)

University crime survey for York residents

11:40am Monday 23rd April 2012 in News By Jennifer Bell, Crime reporter

THOUSANDS of residents are to be quizzed on how they think police should tackle crime in York.

Academics at the York Management School at the University of York have devised a survey, with the support of North Yorkshire Police, Safer York Partnership and City of York Council, which they hope will indicate attitudes and concerns towards crime and disorder in the city.

The research, led by Prof Kiran Fernandes of York Management School, will gather the views of thousands of residents and former residents of York on their views on crime, the fear of crime, confidence and their views on policing.

A key feature of the research will be investigating the impact of where people live now and in the past on their attitudes towards the police.

Researcher Mike Perkins, of the York Management School, said: "Potential benefits from this research are wide-ranging, and could have a significant impact on residents of York, the academic community, the North Yorkshire Police and police forces across the UK."

Results, due out this autumn, will give police the chance to target resources on issues that are relevant to residents.

Coun Sandy Fraser, City of York Council's cabinet member for crime and community, said: "It is important that the police and the other enforcement agencies understand people's perceptions and priorities in respect of the important work that is done in tackling crime in the city.

"I would urge as many of York's citizens as possible, both young and older, to make their views known through this survey.

“We want to ensure that we can build the best possible picture of the needs and wishes of York people, to make what is already a relatively safe and low-crime area even less attractive to the criminal elements within our community."

North Yorkshire Police’s Deputy Chief Constable Tim Madgwick added: "Working in partnership with the University and the council is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable information from our communities and we would strongly encourage all residents to complete this survey.

"It will provide us with additional information about our communities which will assist us in shaping our resources to ensure we deliver the best possible policing service to the City of York."

People can complete the survey online at saferyork.org.uk/public-attitudes-survey.html or at a community safety market which will be in York city centre on Wednesday. Touch screen terminals in the city centre and at the University will also collect survey responses.

People who complete the survey will have the chance of winning one of two £50 Amazon vouchers. The survey will run until June 30.