We are all volunteers who give a little time to educate and inform the public on how to keep themselves and their property safe.

Have you skills which may help or ideas for input?  eg., Fund raising or Project Organising?

We are always interested in anyone who would like to help at various events we are involved with – from leaflet distribution to security marking of mobile phones and computers through to talking to young people and the elderly about personal security.

Can you support us in our efforts on projects?

If you feel you can assist us please contact us on 01463 772692 or email info@icpp.co.uk

Crimestoppers is urging the public of the Highlands and Islands to call them with information which could help Police in their efforts to reduce the supply of illegal drugs in the region.

Northern Constabulary has enjoyed a successful year and has taken hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of drugs off the streets.

Both Crimestoppers and Police say they must not be complacent and have vowed to continue to target those involved in the drugs trade and any other form of serious and organised crime.

Crimestoppers’ National Training and Development Manager, Iain Froggett visited Northern Constabulary HQ last week to speak to Police and partner agencies about the work of the crime fighting charity and underline the independent charity’s commitment to helping Police tackle the drugs menace.

Mr Froggett was invited by Crimestoppers Highland chairman Jim Ferguson, who organised event.

Jim Ferguson Highlands and Islands regional chairman said: “I was delighted to have Ian Froggett attend today’s meeting which clearly shows the high level of support from Crimestoppers nationally for the Highlands and Islands region.

“The region has shown a 6% increase in the number of calls received over last year and a 40% rise in the number of arrests all due to information received from Crimestoppers which is highly encouraging.

“Crimestoppers is effective in the fight against crime and we are all striving hard to tackle the problems that affect our communities. Our board has been very active, regularly attending community council meetings and giving presentations to interested groups.”

He added: “We appreciate the dedication of Northern Constabulary and their support of Crimestoppers in our combined efforts to make our communities safer.

“Crimestoppers offer a completely anonymous way of passing information to law enforcement and clearly the Highlands is increasingly using the service which we provide to good effect.”

Mr Froggett said: “It is great to visit the low crime areas encompassed by the Highlands of Scotland, but to keep it that way, we need people to be vigilant. If they feel they cannot report information about criminal activity to the police for fear of being identified or because they are too close to an offender, then Crimestoppers offers the ideal means.

“We promise total anonymity to all callers whether they use:
Telephone: 0800 555 111 or choose to report online from our website www.crimestoppersscotland-uk.org/

Even the smallest piece of information we receive will be passed to the police and it may be the key to supporting a successful investigation.”

He added: “Offenders are the people who should fear the consequences of crime and by working closely with communities at large, with Crimestoppers volunteers and the police, we can help reduce the availability of controlled drugs and help in the prosecution of those who supply them.”

Deputy Chief Constable Garry Sutherland said: “We are grateful for the continued support we receive from Crimestoppers.

“Some members of the public may feel they cannot contact Police with information, for whatever reason, and in those circumstances Crimestoppers can provide an alternative solution.

“The Crimestoppers service offers people crucial reassurance that the information they are providing is being treated completely anonymously.

“Historically, information provided through Crimestoppers has played a part in the solving of a number of crimes in the Northern Constabulary area and we look forward to further developing that partnership, to ensure the Highlands and Islands remain among the safest places in the UK to live, work and invest.”

Ends

Crime is down 12% for the period April to December 2009 against the same period in 2008. This equates to 1522 fewer victims. Crime rates have actually fallen by 20% over the past 2 years. At the same time overall detection rates remain high at over 61% for classes 1 to 5 and over 84% across all classes of crime.

Northern Constabulary continues to demonstrate its commitment to reducing crime and contributing to safer communities across the Highlands and islands.

Numerous examples of successes include the following:

A number of significant drug seizures and convictions in Shetland including a 4-year sentence of a man with 120,000 of drugs including heroin.

The arrests and prosecution of 5 cases of domestic abuse in Orkney.

Two officers are to be commended for resolving a firearms incident in Barra, Western Isles.

A new initiative involving a Community Response Team has been active in Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross to tackle vandalisms. The scheme has been favourably received by the public and 76 crimes of vandalism have been detected in Caithness.

There have been notable drug seizures in Ross & Cromarty, Lochaber, Skye and Lochalsh, including the recovery of 160,000 class A drugs on the A82 in November. A number of drink drivers were arrested throughout this area during a targetted campaign.

Considerable work continues across the region to address Domestic Abuse and Child Protection. A dedicated Domestic Abuse Liaison Officer has been appointed for the East Division area.

There have been notable seizures of drugs and successful prosecutions across the region including 2 men receiving 12 years each imprisonment at the High Court in Glasgow in December 2009 for supply of drugs.

A number of secondary schools across the region have taken part in “Driving Ambitions” which promotes safer driving.

We help to promote the charity in communities across the region, to let people know that Crimestoppers is there for them as an anonymous route to pass on information about crime. Crimestoppers guarantees anonymity, which means that no-one can ever find out who passed on information about crime.

To pass on information about crime anonymously,
call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or fill out the secure, encrypted online Giving Information Form.

Scotland Crimestoppers is run by volunteers – each and every one is a vital link with the community in the region. If you think you’d like to volunteer for Scotland Crimestoppers, please fill out our Volunteer Enquiry Form.

Subscribe to the Scotland Crimestoppers RSS feed to keep up-to-date

Suzy Calder, Substance Misuse Strategy and Implementation Manager from Highland Drug and Alcohol Action Team (HDAAT) supported the partnership working:
“Rockness 2009 has provided a platform for all multi-agency partners to promote the health, safety and wellbeing of the festival goers.

“In previous years HDAAT have been involved in awareness raising regarding drug and alcohol issues. The cohesive partnership working this year has allowed us to deliver our safety messages as part of a bigger picture which encompasses all aspects of the festival.

“Whilst we encourage all those attending to keep themselves safe, we obviously want them to enjoy themselves and make it a memorable weekend for all the right reasons.”

NHS Highland’s Harm Reduction Co-ordinator John Glenday said:

“Rockness is a real opportunity for people to have a lot of fun and to enjoy their favourite music. In the spirit of that I would urge festival goers to take on board the health messages that we have issued, about drugs, alcohol and safe sex, to make sure that they get the most out of their time at the event.

“It’s vital that people remember that they need to eat, to drink water and to make sure that they maximise their fun by dressing appropriately for the weather and applying sunscreen if necessary. Taking an extra few minutes to get ready for Rockness can be the difference between a real party and a total disaster. Personal responsibility is key but to help kickstart this our multi-agency approach has enabled us to provide some free bottled water, water bottles, mini torches, wet wipes, ponchos, condoms and other protection.”

Iain MacKay, Resilience Advisor for the Scottish Ambulance Service added:
” I speak for the British Red Cross and the Scottish Ambulance Service when I say that there are little things that those attending can do to avoid illness and ensure they receive the best medical care if required.

“For example, bringing sufficient prescribed medication and letting your friends know of any medical condition you have can help enormously if you become ill at the event.”

Scott Hay, Area Manager for Community Risk Management section of HIFRS stated:
“Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service is pleased to be part of a multi-agency partnership approach to this year’s event.

“From a Fire and Rescue Service perspective, we would encourage all those who attend the event to make themselves aware of all on-site fire safety messages and to take care with smoking materials, and when cooking.

“For those planning to cook or use naked flames, for safety reasons you must use the designated cooking areas only and for any outbreak of fire call 999 and notify the event security/fire wardens immediately. We hope that all those who attend enjoy the event and remain safe.”

John Lee, Area Environmental Health Manager, commented:
“The Highland Council has liaised closely with the organisers and other partner agencies in all aspects of this year’s event and we look forward to building on previous successes by ensuring a safe, healthy and enjoyable weekend for all.”

One of the improvements the partners have made, in conjunction with the organisers, is the ability to communicate important and useful information through the use of a large screen facing into the campsite area.

Festival goers will be able to view the day’s weather forecast so they can take appropriate measures, as well as having useful tips to help them stay healthy and safe.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Andy Cowie commented:

“Every year we take points from previous festivals and events around the country to improve the provision of services.

“We want this to be a safe and secure event for festival goers but everyone must take a level of responsibility themselves. Taking simple measures such as looking after your property can make a big difference to your weekend.

“I would also like to encourage anyone who witnesses or suspects criminal activity, such as drug dealing, to report it to the nearest Police Officer.”

Police this year are welcoming feedback from festival goers and have set up a dedicated email for anyone wishing to comment on the Policing at the event feedback@northern.pnn.police.uk.

Ends

For any further information please contact Northern Constabulary on 01463 720397 or NHS Highland on 01463 704774.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

Partners involves in the multi-agency group include: Highland Drug and Alcohol Action Team, NHS Highland, Scottish Ambulance Service, British Red Cross, Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service, Northern Constabulary and Highland Council.

Reflecting on the impact of serious crime in the Highlands and islands, he said:

“Northern Constabulary is well aware of the extent to which organised crime gangs operate within our area. We are well placed to use a range of investigative methods to target, detect and tackle these individuals and this is reflected by significant seizures of drugs across the entire Force area over recent months. Northern Constabulary operates a visible community style of policing and this, together with high levels of public support, stands us in good stead to continue to be successful in targeting serious organised crime in the Highlands and Islands.”

Ends

Starting in the Wick area on Tuesday this week, Crimestoppers leaflets will be dropping through letterboxes across the region.

The leaflets are designed to encourage residents, who don’t wish to ring the Police directly, to contact Crimestoppers to report crime related concerns or criminal activity, anonymously.

Crimestoppers are a highly successful UK charitable organisation, supporting Police initiatives across the Scotland, England and Wales.

Since Crimestoppers started taking your anonymous calls in 1988, they have received; more than one million calls with useful information which have led to:

87,385 people being arrested and charged with offences including murder, rape, drug dealing, burglary, robbery and theft

Over 600 people alone with murder

£103million of stolen property being recovered

Drugs with a street value of over £159million being seized

Clearly, your call does make a difference!

Since the Most Wanted website was launched in November 2005:

Over 1,600 appeals have been featured

400 suspects have been arrested and charged (one Most Wanted arrest every other day)

25% of these arrests resulted from the information given by members of the public

Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Jim Ferguson Chair of Highlands and Islands Crimestoppers said:

“Our towns and villages across Caithness, Sutherland & Easter Ross remain safe places to live and work. Let’s keep them that way.
It would be preferable, if everyone within the community was willing to stand up and be counted but, if for any reason, you do not want to give your name we will understand. You can still give the information anonymously.
We must work together if we want our towns and villages to remain one of the safest places to live and work in Scotland.

Notwithstanding this however, we cannot ignore that in certain areas a small number of individuals are intent on committing crimes of an anti-social nature, vandalism, disturbance, domestic violence & drug dealing and continue to conduct themselves in an anti-social manner, which can often occur when alcohol and drugs are involved.

Recently, cases of rented Highlands�s property were reported in regional newspapers as being used for Cannabis Factories. This examples the creeping menace of organised crime.

The message is clear, we must all work together to disrupt and deter those intent on such behaviour.”

Crimestoppers only want to know what you know about crime, not who you are.

The type of information needed is:

Names, ages, addresses
What they are doing and when
What cars or vehicles being used
Where proceeds of crime are being stored
Any information which would help catch the criminals

Maybe you’ve seen or heard something about a crime but don’t know what to do or would you say something if no one knew it was you?
Are you scared to come forward and be a witness?
Are you worried about what might happen to you if you talk to the police?
If you feel like this, it’s easy to think there’s nothing you can do!

Crimestoppers is available for you to make your community a safer place to live.

Anonymity makes the difference and the promise of anonymity has never been broken.

Talking to an advisor helps provide the full picture and makes sure the best use can be made of your information.

Remember, Crimestoppers is an independent charity and not part of the police. If you wish to pass on information about crime anonymously

Please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111


HELP US TO HELP YOU
Jim Ferguson – Chairman – Highlands & Islands Crimestoppers

REMEMBER IF YOU SEE A CRIME BEING COMMITTED
PLEASE TELEPHONE 999 IMMEDIATELY AND ASK FOR POLICE

PREVENT A CRIME OR HELP US CATCH A CRIMINAL

2008 is no exception and Major Stores, Shops, Pubs, Clubs, Theatre, Cinema, Hotel and Visitor Attractions are making every effort to put an attractive package together to ensure an enjoyable experience to suit most tastes.

Northern Constabulary, Inverness Crime Prevention Panel, Crimestoppers, Street Pastors, Highland Council and other groups are working together to ensure as safe an environment as possible exists during this period and as an ongoing operation under the “Respect” umbrella.

With the Christmas holiday season almost upon us, now is a good time to remind people to take steps to make sure criminals don’t spoil your Christmas.

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do, the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around, and the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day.

We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.

Jim Ferguson – Chair of the Inverness Crime Prevention Panel
talks with the Police out in the City at night.

Commenting on the Winter Festival arrangements, Inverness Area Police Commander, Chief Inspector Julian Innes said:

“I am really pleased that all the partners in Inverness are working together to make Inverness safer and more enjoyable over the winter festival period. Extra Police officers will be on patrol to deter anti social behaviour but for those that chose to commit crime and spoil the enjoyment of others then the message is clear in that it will not be tolerated and policing will be robust.”

Inverness Area Command

Inverness City is the urban centre of Northern Constabulary’s Force area.
The Area Command is responsible for Policing not only the city, but many of the outlying areas such as Beauly, Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus to name but a few.

So what can we do?

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel has applied normal crime prevention advice to Christmas.

The information below is often common sense, but you might overlook it in your haste to get everything ready.

Out on the town

With office parties and general Christmas celebrations, pubs, restaurants and other venues are often crowded.

> Don’t leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket.
> Busy places make it easier for the sneak thief, so be alert at all times
> Make prior arrangements as to how you will get home.
> Avoid any potential disturbances on the street. Stay with friends if you can.
> Make sure someone knows where you are going and what time you will be back.
> Don’t drink too much – you could become a target for thieves.
> Take precautions against Drink spiking – Keep your glass with you, never leaving it unattended and keep it covered.

Some general points:

You will be safest in bright, well-lit and busy areas.

> Try to look and act confident – look like you know where you are going and walk tall.

> You might like to spread your valuables around your body.
> For example, keep your phone in your bag, your house keys in your trouser pocket and your money in your jacket.

> Try not to be conspicuous about the valuables you are carrying.
> Talking on your mobile phone, carrying a laptop, or showing your friend your new gold ring all show thieves that you are worth robbing.

> When out walking or jogging, you should not listen to a personal stereo through headphones, so you can stay more alert to your surroundings.

Mobile phones

If your phone is stolen, report your number to your network and the police
The handset can now be barred on all networks and will be useless to thieves.

> Register your phone with your network operator.

> Record your registration number (IMEI) and your phone number.
> Keep these in a safe place separate from your phone.
> You can get your IMEI number (15-digit serial number) by keying *#06# into most phones or by looking behind your phone battery.

> Report the number of your stolen phone to your network operator and the police as quickly as you can. It can now be cancelled immediately like a stolen credit card.

> Stay alert your phone is a valuable item. When you are out, be aware of your surroundings and don’t use your phone in crowded areas or where you might feel unsafe.

Credit cards

> Keep your cards separate from your cheque books.

> If your cards are stolen, call your bank or credit card company as soon as possible. > Most banks put the number to call if your cards are stolen on your statement.
They are also often shown on cash machines.

Following the general guidelines for personal safety will help you avoid situations where people may rob you.

Personal Safety: Transport

This section offers some general tips on how to keep yourself safe and secure when you’re making a journey either catching a bus or taxi, or when you’re in the car.

Public transport

As with everything, you are safest where there are other people, and where it is light or well lit.

> Plan your route.

> Try to wait in busy or well-lit areas.

> Sit near other people, the driver if you are on a bus, or near the conductor if you are on a train.

Move if someone makes you feel uncomfortable.

Out Shopping

When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you.

> If you can’t arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse.
> If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to these to be aware of anyone stealing from you.
> You could try to make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much
> Have your purse/wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash.
> The same applies to travelling on crowded buses or trains.
> If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well- lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view.
> Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance.
> Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.
> Keep your chequebook and cheque card separately.

At Home

Having bought all those wonderful presents, don’t make it easy for someone to steal from your home.
> Keep them out of sight until last thing on Christmas Eve and if you ‘hide’ or store larger items such as bicycles in the shed or outbuildings, make sure they are very secure.
> Now is a good time to check that you know what you have both normally (TV, Video etc) and with the extra presents you have bought.
> You may well find you need to check your insurance to make sure you are covered for the value of goods in your home.
> Take the frame numbers of new cycles and the serial numbers of new electrical equipment for future reference.
> Remember, empty boxes left outside advertise that you have new goods inside – dispose of packing carefully.

> If you go out for the evening – make it look like someone is at home by turning on lights and the radio.
> Don’t leave curtains open so people can see your decorations as potential thieves can see in.
> Be extra careful about locking doors and windows.
> As a fire precaution, don’t leave Christmas lights on in the house whilst you are out.

> If you go away for the holiday period – use an automatic timer for lights and ask a trusted neighbour to watch your home.
> Don’t forget to cancel newspapers and milk if you have them delivered and either redirect your mail through the Post Office or have your neighbour take mail into the house – unopened Christmas cards and mail are a sure sign that a house is empty.

Strangers at the door

> Genuine delivery personnel usually have uniforms and liveried vehicles and should not need to come into your home.
> Charity collectors will have identification and will not be offended if you ask to see it.
> If you are not sure but want to make a donation, ask whether these can be made in other ways, perhaps through a bank – check with your bank before making any payments through the banking system.

Driving

Please do not drink and drive – to do so risks your own life and others and incurs heavy penalties, possibly prison and financially.

General Safety in your car

> Keep your car in good condition and try not to run out of petrol.

> Keep doors locked when driving and keep bags, phones and other valuables out of sight, preferably in the boot.

> Try to park in well-lit or busy areas, and if you park during the day, think about what the area will feel like after dark.

> Do not give lifts to or accept lifts with people you do not know, or do not know well.

> Do not drive if you have been drinking or taking drugs, and do not take a lift from someone who has.

> You may feel more comfortable carrying a mobile phone with you. Try to keep it out of sight, and do not use it while drivingThe Inverness Winter Festival started on 20^th November and will continue until 1^st January.

Inverness Crime Prevention Panel in co-operation with Police, Highland Council, Street Pastors and Crimestoppers wish everyone a very happy festive period.

Finally, anyone with information about any criminal activity is asked to contact Crimestoppers.

The service is designed with confidentiality in mind and information about crime can be given anonymously

Call Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111

Crimestoppers are a Registered Charity.

Have Fun, Be Safe, and please Respect each other during this festive season and at all other times.

Jim Ferguson
Chair - Inverness Crime Prevention Panel
Chair – Crimestoppers Highlands

Inverness will initially have 22 Street Pastors who will work in teams of 4 every Friday from 10pm to 3am and initially also one Saturday per month.  They will work in partnership with community groups, the Police and The Highland Council.  Training started last August for the 22 volunteers who will be identifiable by their uniforms and ID badges. 

The Street Pastors initiative started in the London Boroughs in 2003 as a direct response to increased violent crime and antisocial behaviour.  Results showed marked improvements, so much so that the initiative is running in 55 locations around the UK, although this will be only the second to be set up in Scotland.  Aberdeen launched their scheme a few months ago and Perth will be launched later this year.

Street Pastors Co-ordinator, Mark Hadfield said:  “The volunteers are all unpaid people who care about Inverness and its people.  They come from 11 different local churches in the area, representing a broad spectrum of denominations.  The Street Pastor is there to get to know people in the community and to build relationships with them to find out their needs and what can be done for them.”

On behalf of the Provost, Councillor Ian Brown attended the launch and met with the volunteers.  Welcoming the initiative he said:  “The national success of the scheme has shown it can make a positive difference to young people so I am delighted that Inverness will be introducing Street Pastors.  Sometimes all people need is someone to listen and talk to them about any worries or concerns they have.  This is a very practical way of reaching out and offering help from the pavements. The volunteers are to be admired for their commitment and I am sure the initiative will prove to be a success and our city centre will be safer and more peaceful at the weekends.” 

ENDS

The multi-faceted operation will target a wide range of criminal activity including drug dealers and users, shoplifters, drink/drug drivers, irresponsible drivers and the sale of alcohol to minors.

The aim of the operation – which was launched on Friday and will run until Christmas Eve in Inverness as well as towns and villages in Badenoch, Strathspey and Nairn – will dovetail with one of the force’s main priorities, the reduction of anti-social behaviour.

Over the course of the weekend, Northern Constabulary officers identified 31 incidents as part of the new operation, including detecting a shoplifter who stole around £3,000 worth of goods from one city shop.

The officer overseeing the operation is Superintendent David O’Connor, area commander for Inverness.

He said: "We are aware that the festive season is getting under way and that there will be a lot of people out and about in Inverness and the surrounding towns and villages.

"From office parties to Christmas shopping, the streets will be busier than usual. With that comes the seasonal increase in crime involving shoplifters, drink drivers and drug dealers or users.

"Our aim is to provide reassurance to our communities that they can go about their business without worrying about becoming a victim of crime."

Chief Inspector Donald Henderson added the police would take a tough stance with anyone breaking the law.

He told the Highland News: "We will be using various resources to tackle criminal behaviour over this period including launching covert and overt resources."

He added: "This is traditionally a very busy time of year. As always at this time, there is an increase in the number of shoplifting incidents.

"Much of the time people are stealing to feed a drug habit, but there are also those who are stealing to order.

"People will steal anything from alcohol to widescreen televisions.

"However, over the course of our first weekend operating this new initiative, we have been successful in detecting a number of people who have been involved in these types of crimes."

Ch Insp Henderson added that alcohol-related crimes were also in the spotlight.

"We will be using test purchasing to investigate anyone who is suspected of being involved in the sale of alcohol to minors. This is something which we deem very serious.

"There was a lot of alcohol confiscated over the weekend, the majority of it being taken from youngsters. This will simply not be tolerated.

"We have also stepped up our patrols in various blackspots around the city where traditionally there can be trouble or anti-social behaviour and we will also be tying in with national campaigns to target drink and drug driving over the festive period.

"Anybody getting involved in criminal activity will be arrested, taken into custody and they will appear in court."

c.doughty@highland-news.co.uk

By Helen Bushnell – Highland News – Published: 27 October, 2007

Chief Inspector Ian Cox
Under attack

And a leading Inverness cop warned this week that tougher sentencing by courts is needed if an upsurge in violent crime is to be curtailed.

Chief Inspector Ian Cox of the force’s Inverness Area Command has blamed a number of factors for the increase, but also said the way assault cases are handled in court is not acting as enough of a deterrent to persistent offenders.

Figures obtained by the Highland News show 3,973 assaults took place in 2006/07. In 2001/02, there were 2,562 offences reported, while in 1990 that figure was just 1,624.

In Inverness alone in 2006/07, there were 1,374 assaults, a rise of 50 per cent compared with the 915 committed in the city in 01/02.

Chief Inspector Cox said: “It comes down to a number of things. It corresponds with a rise in anti-social behaviour generally. We are also seeing longer licensing hours, and alcohol and substance misuse rising. Crime in general is also going along that train.

“We are not always helped by the disposals given by the court and how they view it. A Sheriff Court judges each case on its own merit but there needs to be a strong deterrent so people can go and recreate in safety.

“That is a precious thing that needs to be preserved – we are all parents, we want our children to go out and come home unmolested. We also want them to behave when they are out.”

He said the attacks are generally concentrated in the main towns of the Highlands where the pubs and clubs are based.

He explained: “In Inverness we obviously get a lot of assaults in the city centre. We have a strong police presence every weekend, with a minimum of eight officers on the streets to primarily concentrate on assaults and anti-social behaviour.

“Going back to 1990, there was not the door staff at every club and pub which there now is.”

When it comes to reducing the risk of drink-related violence, he said the replacing of glasses with plastic tumblers would be a way forward. Already, one of the conditions in licensing rock festivals such as Rock Ness is the blanket use of plastic glasses.

He added: “We have seen a number of glassing assaults and the licensing board is actively considering its policies in relation to introducing plastic receptacles in licensed premises.”

He said the police are doing all they can to reduce the potential for violent crimes, but admitted that sometimes it is an impossible task.

“We are concerned when there’s any assault, and we can influence certain types of crimes,” he said.

“In Inverness, that is putting people before the court, and making representations to licensing boards, making sure there is public space CCTV, and encouraging schemes such as the Pubwatch where people are banned and literally excluded from entering city centre premises covered by the scheme.

“But at the end of the day, it comes down to a person’s upbringing and their own nature, and whether they are going to have respect for others. That is something we can’t influence – somebody’s family values.”

h.bushnell@highland-news.co.uk

By Claire Doughty – Highland News – Published: 27 October, 2007

And the translators at the top scale are paid £25 an hour – almost the equivalent hourly wage rate of the force’s inspectors.

And over the last six years, with more foreign nationals moving to the region, the costs are increasing dramatically – a situation which is worrying crime prevention organisations.

In the financial year 2001/02, the cost of hiring translators cost just £2,689 and involved 20 experts who could speak Italian, French, Spanish, Galician, Dutch and German.

But just six years later in 2006/07, the costs spiralled by a massive 583 per cent to £18,376 and involved a range of languages including Cantonese, Russian, Hungarian, Czech and Polish.

And just six months into this financial year, Northern Constabulary has already called on 31 interpreters who speak Slovakian, Bengali, Danish, Mandarin, Latvian and Sylheti.

Costs for the first half of this financial year are already exceeding £11,383.

Chief Inspector Ian Cox, of Northern Constabulary’s Inverness area command, told the Highland News: “The figures are reflective of the society that we are policing. The city is going through a boom time. It is seen as an attractive option for people to come and live and work.”

It is estimated that there are now around 9,000 Polish nationals living in Inverness alone.

Ch Insp Cox commented: “We have a huge flow of the Polish population living here and sadly we have seen a number of Polish nationals come under our jurisdiction for drink driving.

“They are a heavy drinking nation and for us to comply with human rights laws we have to have interpreters so that they know the law of the land.

“It’s a resource issue. So long as people from different countries come here, we will need interpreters’ services to do our job properly.”

He added: “However, we do not just need interpreters if someone is on the wrong side of the law.

“We could get a non-English speaking person who is involved in a road accident and we would need an interpreter to get involved so that we can investigate thoroughly. Equally, foreign nationals can become victims of crime too.”

Jim Ferguson, head of Crimestoppers Highland branch and also chairman of the Inverness Crime Prevention panel, said he was concerned about the effect the increasing costs would have on police resources.

He said: “What this shows is the scale of the problem of people coming to this country to live who cannot speak English. I’m surprised to see the level increase from just under £3,000 to almost £18,500 just six years later.

“It is equally worrying to see that we still have six months of the financial year to go and the evidence suggests that by the end of that year the figure may reach £23-24,000.”

He added: “In terms of police resourcing, these costs have to be found and someone has to pay for them, but what concerns me is that Northern Constabulary may not be keeping pace with the level of funding being brought on by the increased demands brought about by the growing numbers coming in the region.”

* In November 2006, the Highland News revealed hospital interpreters for Polish patients were being paid more than highly trained medical staff, including some doctors.

We told how translators at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness were pocketing £27.50 an hour plus travel time and expenses putting further financial pressure on NHS Highland.

c.doughty@highland-news.co.uk

* Should the public purse foot the bill for police and NHS translators? Go to ‘The Big Vote’ to have your say.

The killing of Rhys Jones in Liverpool has brought home just how easy it is to get hold of firearms in our larger cities and the shockingly casual way that they appear to be being used.

Against this background the Scottish Executive’s call for the banning of airguns to all but sporting users and those involved in pest control is likely to garner much support. Animal welfare organisations have been calling for tighter controls for years and Sharon McMillan, whose young son Andrew was killed by an airgun pellet in 2005, has been leading the campaign for an outright ban.

The SNP administration at Holyrood has now taken up the cause and is seeking new powers which would enable it to extend the stricter controls being introduced by the UK government in October which will raise the age limit for owning air guns from 17 to 18 and effectively outlaw mail order and internet sales.

There is no doubt that there are major problems in parts of the central belt with air guns falling into the hands of children, and the shooting of a man in Glenurquhart Road last week reminds us that it also an issue in Inverness, albeit to a much lesser degree.

But would a ban of the kind the Executive is proposing work? There is no guarantee. It should be remembered that the current use of firearms by teenage gangs comes despite the introduction of strict anti-handgun legislation in the wake of the Dunblane massacre.

And then there is a danger that if air guns are criminalised and driven underground those who currently use them for illegitimate purposes may decide that, if they risk prosecution anyway, they might just as well acquire a much more deadly handgun.

Even the police appear uncertain that a ban is the best way forward. Yesterday Chief Constable John Vine of Tayside Police expressed concern that any new legislation must be both workable and enforceable and not bog officers down in yet more paperwork, suggesting that he doubted whether the measures being proposed by justice secretary Kenny MacAskill met this criteria.

Jim Ferguson

Today Jim Ferguson of Crimestoppers and the Inverness Crime Prevention Panel proposes a different way forward. He believes a ban on airguns would be a waste of time and make no difference to their illegal use. Instead he wants children to be educated in responsible gun use.

There is certainly something in his call for greater awareness. Youngsters growing up in country areas around Inverness may be used to seeing firearms and accept them as a part of everyday life, but for the vast majority of city-raised teenage boys guns possess a glamour and mystique and offer a sense of power.

If this could be stripped away by a proper education programme — similar to that which informs young people about the realities of drug use — it would certainly be a contribution to addressing a problem for which there are no easy answers. Whether any politician would be brave enough to suggest a solution that could involve putting guns in teenagers’s hands, even in a controlled environment, is another matter.

In America, The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program teaches children in pre-K through third grade four important steps to take if they find a gun. These steps are presented by the program’s mascot, Eddie Eagle®, in an easy-to-remember format consisting of the following simple rules:

If you see a gun:

STOP! Don’t Touch. Leave the Area. Tell an Adult.

Begun in 1988, The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program has reached more than 20 million children — in all 50 states. This program was developed through the combined efforts of such qualified professionals as clinical psychologists, reading specialists, teachers, curriculum specialists, urban housing safety officials, and law enforcement personnel.

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Jim Ferguson Chairman of the ICPP said:

”Duncan has been a valued member of the team and his input has been invaluable.
I am very proud to have worked as closely with Duncan Carmichael of Northern Constabulary during the last 5 years with the Crime Prevention Panel.

His intelligent approach and his enthusiasm for Community Policing Projects has been welcomed and attracted the attention of Senior Police Officers, as well as the many organisations we have partnered with.

Duncan is a great asset to the Police and the community he serves and thoroughly deserves this recognition for the effort and professionalism he has so ably demonstrated during his time with us.

On behalf of The Inverness Crime Prevention Panel I would like to thank him for all that he brought to us and wish him every success with his new post.”

Jim went on to say:

”Following his valuable service to Northern Constabulary, Duncan has now moved on within the Police Force and his replacement Alan Lewthwaite, was warmly welcomed to the Panel and we look forward to working closely with him in his new area of responsibility”.

Panel Chairman Jim Ferguson, speaking at the Town House launch attended and supported by Chief Inspector Colin Soutter, Fergus Ewing, Danny Alexander, and Inverness Provost Bill Smith, said:

“We have been working closely with Northern Constabulary to bring the product to the Highlands after its reported success in major areas such as London, Liverpool, Manchester, Coventry and other areas of the UK.

The product is at present available for direct purchase, but the ICPP is seeking business partners to assist with funding the supply of the unique product to disadvantaged and community areas in the fight against crime, minimising police time taken with investigating these problems and maximising succesful prosecution”.

The College caters for over 8,500 students, from a variety of countries, of all abilities and from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Jim Ferguson, Panel Chairman said:
“We feel it important to meet and help people face to face and this type of exhibition enables us hopefully provide information about the different types of scams and general criminal activities that young people joining the college and moving from other areas may not be aware of”.

Duncan Carmichael
Representing Northern Constabulary said:
“We were made to feel welcomed by the students and were even asked by a number how they could join the police force!
It was encouraging to be able to speak to so many young people and help prepare them to avoid potential problems ahead”.

Duncan went on to say:
“We had the usual requests for our panic alarms, and despite the number we had, soon ran out, and were also able to give the students help with mobile phone theft prevention”.

Jim Ferguson, Panel Chairman said:
“It was amazing, as fast as Kevin unpacked them, they were gone!”

Jim went on to say:
“We were delighted to be able to talk to so many new student nurses who were concerned about protection from crime. Clearly, young people recognise that sophisticated criminals are likely to prey on young people, and they appreciate the help we are able to provide”

Barrie Haycock, a panel member, assisting at the event, said:
“Jim and I had been looking at the growing problem of “scams” operating in the area, and we were astonished to be approached by a student who exampled an elderly person who was in the process of arranging a transfer of £4,000 to criminal elements operating from Spain, using the common “you are a prize winner” ploy, as a scam.

Thankfully, the student had recognised the problem, and had taken early action to prevent the fraud, but we were able to provide leaflets supplied by Trading Standards explaining the scam so she could show the unfortunate victim that he was not alone, and the type of scam was widespread throughout the UK”.

The Highland Campus site has purpose built teaching accommodation and student flats.