You can help shape a new strategy aimed at reducing serious violence across Liverpool City Region

Time is running out for people to have a say over the shaping of a new strategy aimed at reducing serious violence across our region.

Willing residents are asked to share their thoughts on the impact of violence on communities, their perceptions of the problem, the causes, the consequences and what they want to see happen to prevent themselves and others having a fear of violence.

The development of the strategy is being led by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, with the support of the five Community Safety partnerships in Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral. They are made up of Councils, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, NHS, and National Probation Service.

Merseyside’s Police Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, said: 

“Serious violence can affect anyone and the consequences are often devastating and life-changing – whether you are a victim, a relative, loved one, friend or witness.

“We are determined to prevent and reduce serious violence to stop more families suffering such heartache and harm.

“To do that, it’s vital we understand people’s perceptions of violence and how we can make them feel safer. This is a chance for people across Merseyside to have their voices heard.

“By taking part, you will help inform the work we do in the future to protect families and communities, and I would encourage everyone, to please have your say.”

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, said: 

“As the tragedies we have experienced as a region in the past few years show, violence has a devastating ripple effect causing harm to individuals, families, communities and our society.

“We want to make sure that everyone who lives, studies and works on Merseyside has the opportunity to be heard in relation to their feelings of safety, experiences of crime and sense of community.

“This is a chance for you to have your voice heard in a way which will directly influence how we work with you to address issues of safety and violence in your communities.

Other partners such as youth justice, prisons, education and voluntary sector services are also involved.  

The closing date is Sunday 1 October 2023.

The survey is completely anonymous, is open to anyone living, studying or working in Merseyside, and can be found here.