Neighbourhood policing puts PC Kimberlee Newman on the beat in Oakham
When asked what people want from their police, ‘to see more officers on the beat’ is often the response.
The peace of mind that comes with seeing uniformed officers on patrol is something forces recognise - and is why neighbourhood policing makes up much of what they do.
PC Kimberlee Newman has been a police officer for two-and-a-half years, having previously worked for supermarket chain Sainsbury’s.
Being part of the neighbourhood policing team in Oakham is a favourite aspect of the job.
“We’re not just responding to crimes as they happen,” she said. “We’re building up relationships with residents and people who work in the area and helping to keep them safe.
“Neighbourhood policing is personalised and focused on preventing crime, which can be really rewarding.
“It’s an opportunity to engage with local businesspeople and members of the community, and to be ‘front-facing’.”
Rutland Police encourage people to speak directly with members of their team, to discuss concerns or gain advice.
A new front desk at Oakham Police Station, in Station Road, will open this spring.
Officers visit businesses regularly, providing an opportunity - particularly for shop staff - to talk to them about shoplifters and problem customers.
There is also a WhatsApp group for shops and businesses in Oakham town centre, giving police and shop staff a quick way to share information and warnings.
While on duty, PC Newman heads out on foot from Oakham Police Station, to drop in on Wilko and QD - two shops she hopes will join their ‘traders alert’ WhatsApp group.
Caz Dalby, store manager at Wilko, shared her experience of a shoplifter who comes in regularly to try to help himself from the shelves.
By passing on information about him, Caz helps to alert PC Newman to the suspect, giving her information that could support a future prosecution.
Next stop is QD, where supervisor Roland Shaw is on hand to chat with PC Newman about store security.
Having recently moved to Rutland from South Africa, he is quick to acknowledge how low crime rates are compared with his previous home.
But he isn’t complacent and swaps details with PC Newman so QD is kept up to date through the WhatsApp group.
Like traders, people who live in the Oakham area can also hear from the police directly.
Neighbourhood Link lets people receive the latest news from officers about forthcoming beat surgeries, crime updates, as well as general advice on keeping homes and possessions secure, and scam prevention.
“We’re a trusted source of information,” said PC Newman, “But it is also a place people can share views and let us know about suspicious activity.”
To join Neighbourhood Link for Rutland and Leicestershire people can visit the website neighbourhoodlink.co.uk
Constable is well-equipped for the job she loves
Even on the safe streets of Oakham, police officers must carry a lot of equipment.
A baton, CS spray, handcuffs, a body-worn camera, ‘fast straps’, a radio and, in some cases even tasers - are everyday wear for police officers.
Fast straps are used for securing wayward legs when someone is kicking out at officers.
“It was always my aim to become a police officer,” said 30-year-old PC Kimberlee Newman.
Having recently moved from working in urban Leicestershire to Rutland, her patch is Oakham and Barleythorpe, and she often works alongside PC Ben Orton, beat officer for the north of the county.
PC Craig Robinson is also a colleague, on secondment to Oakham Police Station from his usual role as a response officer.
For PC Newman, the special role of a neighbourhood officer is a favourite aspect of the job.
