Partnership team launched aiming to cut crime and strengthen community

An enhanced partnership team has been launched with the aim of further tackling the issues that matter most to residents in a busy North Tyneside community.

Meadow Well Community Partnership is built on a refreshed, innovative partnership model and will see officers from North Tyneside Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) working closely with local organisations, community groups, housing providers and North Tyneside Council.

Its aim is to reduce crime and make the area safer and stronger.

The unit has been set up with clear priorities around reducing youth anti-social behaviour (ASB), tackling drug-dealing, addressing violence and weapons-based crime.

It will also look at health issues in the local area and the quality of life of residents living there.

Dedicated officers are working with youth services, schools and local charities to support positive opportunities for young people, while taking firm action against persistent ASB. This includes increased patrols in hotspot areas, early intervention, and problem‑solving with partners to prevent young people from being drawn into offending.

The team is also stepping up efforts to disrupt drug supply networks and safeguard vulnerable residents exploited through cuckooing, the practice in which offenders take over a vulnerable person’s home and use it to commit crime such as dealing drugs or storing weapons.

The team is strengthening intelligence‑sharing with partners, increasing visits to vulnerable addresses and working more closely with housing and support agencies to identify and protect those who are deemed at risk.

Officers are also aiming to reduce violence in the area, especially that which involves knives. To combat this, the team will be carrying out targeted operations, proactive patrols and educational work with young people, while supporting diversion schemes that help individuals move away from violence.

Residents will also see officers on the patch, expanded engagement events, and a stronger presence in community hubs across the estate. Regular updates on progress and policing activity will also be shared publicly.

Inspector Michael Hood, of Northumbria Police, said: “This isn’t just about policing; it’s about partnership.

“We know Meadow Well is a resilient, proud community and our commitment is to work alongside residents and partners every day to address the problems which impact people’s quality of life.

“Our approach is practical, visible, and rooted in listening.

“These priorities have been shaped by the community and our partners. We want residents to feel confident in coming to us with concerns, ideas, or information.

“We’d ask that members of the public please continue to work with us by getting in touch if there is something you think we should know about. By policing in this way, we can further improve the area and ensure that Meadow Well can be the best it possibly can be. We are here to help.”

Peter Mennell, Director of Housing and Property Services at North Tyneside Council, said: “As a Council, we’re delighted to see the launch of this new team and I’m pleased that we’re going to be working alongside the police to support our residents to live happy, healthy and safe lives.

“Every organisation involved is committed to working towards our goal of tackling the issues that matter most to our residents and ensuring that Meadow Well continues to be a safe, secure and thriving place for everyone who lives here.”

Further updates around the team will be shared on Northumbria Police’s social media channels.

Anyone with concerns in their area should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat and report form function on the Force’s website.

For those unable to make contact via those ways, call 101.