Community comes out in force to learn about sentencing
24 February 2010
Members
of Wythenshawe's newly formed Community Force have attended a special
training session hosted by magistrates and the probation service.
The idea of the session was to discuss community sentencing and help dispel the myth that it's a soft option.
Around 40 people attended the event last week (Thursday 18 February) at Wythenshawe forum. It was organised by Manchester City Council's Community Safety Co-ordinator for Sharston and Woodhouse Park, Roger Burton: "The Wythenshawe Community Force is made up of over 100 residents. This session was organised to discuss community sentencing, to explain just how challenging it is and the benefits for the local community," he said.
Manchester City Council Deputy Leader Councillor Jim Battle said: "There are a number of misconceptions about community sentencing and it's reassuring that so many people were willing to give up their time to find out exactly how the system works."
The Community Force is made up of around 100 residents who are keen to help improve their neighbourhoods. They are involved in keeping their neighbours informed of crime trends and are regularly consulted by the police and partners regarding crime and disorder issues in their area. They also attend events and training and awareness sessions, like this one, with the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Community Force should contact Roger Burton, The Community Safety Co-ordinator for Woodhouse Park and Sharston on 0161 856 4820 or 07789 508444.
