The Home Office initiative, led locally by Police and Crime Commissioners, Chief Constables and local authorities brings together police and partner agencies to target reductions in town centre theft, street crime, and anti-social behaviour (ASB) through high‑visibility policing and public engagement.

Joined by officials from the Home Office, PCC Grunshaw and officers toured the town centre and visited the Youth Zone which recently received funding from the Commissioner’s Community Fund to run a summer programme aimed at reducing ASB through engagement and early intervention.

Following his visit, Commissioner Grunshaw said: “It’s fantastic to see the effort that goes into making Blackburn Town Centre a safe place for everyone.

“It’s clear that local officers understand the issues in this area and work proactively to address them.

“I was really impressed to see the positive relationship between the local policing team and the Youth Zone. Effective partnership working and early intervention are key to solving local issues and reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

“The team at the Youth Zone have a clear passion for making a difference in their area, and I’m pleased to be able to support their important work through my Community Fund.

“I will continue to work closely with the Constabulary and our partners to drive collaboration and invest in projects that support the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan to make Lancashire a safer place for all.”

Jamie Swales, Grant & Trusts Manager, Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone said:

“At Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone, we’re proud to be a safe space and a team of safe adults that young people can turn to. We’re that ‘third place’ outside of school and home where they can feel heard, supported, and valued. By working closely with the local police, we’re helping to break down barriers and tackle anti-social behaviour in a way that puts trust and understanding at the heart of everything we do.”

The Safer Streets Summer Initiative is running from 30 June to 30 September.