Protecting Young People in Liverpool: Merseyside Police’s Collaborative Approach

Liverpool is the third most dangerous major city in the UK, with the most common crime being violence and sexual offences, with 27,200 offences during 2023 (Crime Rate). We welcomed Detective Superintendent Andy O’Connor of Merseyside Police to share insights from his career at our Tackling Gangs Conference 2024. Andy discussed the strategies employed by his team to combat serious and organised crime in Liverpool. As he approaches the end of his 30-year career, he reflects on the significant changes and challenges faced in policing and the importance of a collaborative approach in tackling crime. The presentation is available above with a full summary given below.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem

Over the past 15 years, Detective Superintendent O’Connor has focused on addressing serious and organised crime in Liverpool. He emphasises that much of what is traditionally referred to as “organised crime” is, in reality, disorganised. This type of crime has a profound impact on communities, perpetuating cycles of recruitment and criminal activity. For years, the response to disorganised crime involved arresting and charging individuals, only to see new offenders fill their places.

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The Cost of Crime vs. Prevention

Responding to crime is costly. The expenses related to serious violence, including knife crime and homicides, can run into millions of pounds, considering investigation and court costs. In contrast, preventive measures are far more economical. Investing in prevention not only reduces costs but also helps to break the cycle of crime by addressing root causes and supporting at-risk individuals.

A New Strategy: Partnership and Community Engagement

Detective Superintendent O’Connor underscores the necessity of a partnership approach. Merseyside Police works closely with various partners and the public to tackle organised crime. This collaboration is vital because policing alone cannot solve these complex issues. By involving community organisations, schools, and local authorities, Merseyside Police aims to build a network of support for vulnerable individuals.

One successful initiative is Operation Stonehaven, which focuses on preventive measures through community engagement. This program involves working with over 60 partner agencies to deliver interventions that engage young people, often through sports. By investing in these partnerships, the police can reach out to youth and keep them engaged in education and positive activities.

The Role of Education

Education plays a crucial role in preventing crime. Programs like the Everton Free School offer alternative education paths for young people excluded from mainstream schools. These initiatives provide essential skills and qualifications, helping students become employable and stay away from criminal activities. Similar efforts by the Liverpool Foundation focus on keeping young people engaged and educated, reducing their vulnerability to recruitment by crime groups.

Evidence-Led Prosecutions and Safeguarding

Merseyside Police’s approach to tackling organised crime includes evidence-led prosecutions for modern-day slavery. This method targets those who exploit vulnerable individuals, leading to successful convictions without requiring victims to testify in court. The force has safeguarded over 462 children and vulnerable adults, highlighting their commitment to protecting those at risk.

Investing in Communities

One powerful aspect of Merseyside Police’s strategy is reinvesting money seized from criminals back into the community. This approach not only helps rebuild and support community groups but also sends a strong message that the police are committed to working with and for the community. Programs funded through these means provide additional resources and support, fostering trust and collaboration between the police and the public.

Breaking the Cycle of Crime in Liverpool

Detective Superintendent Andy O’Connor’s reflections on his career and the strategies employed by Merseyside Police highlight the importance of a collaborative approach in tackling organised crime. By working with partners, investing in prevention, and engaging with communities, Merseyside Police aims to break the cycle of crime and create a safer environment for all. As he concludes his service, the successes and lessons learned from these initiatives provide a valuable roadmap for future efforts in crime prevention and community engagement.

For more information on Merseyside Police’s initiatives and to get involved, visit the Merseyside Police website. Please see our latest conference below to hear the latest initiatives on tackling gangs, violence, and county lines.

Latest Tackling Gangs, Violence and County Lines Conference

Join us at The Tackling Gangs, Violence and County Lines Conference for key insights on combating organised crime. Benefit from high-level keynotes, case studies on victim safeguarding and criminal network dismantling. Explore topics like multi-agency collaboration, engaging with vulnerable youth, and service delivery enhancement.