Thames Valley Police is holding a first-of-its kind event in Reading this month in a bid to harness the enthusiasm and commitment of community-minded residents in the borough.
Thanks to the support of the community, officers have been able to secure convictions for offenders and received the help they need for major inquiries.
Building on the success of the regular recruitment roadshows, which are often held in Reading and attract hundreds of people wanting to find out more about a career with the Force, Reading Police - Making A Difference, will be held at the Holiday Inn in Richfield Avenue, on 23 June.
The event will continue to provide information and support for people who wish to join Thames Valley Police, either as an officer, support staff member, police community support officer (PCSO), Special or volunteer.
However, it will also be a chance for police and the public to meet and discuss how they can all work together to Make A Difference.
The event, which runs from 10am to 7pm, will have information on joining crime-fighting organisations such as Neighbourhood Watch. This year alone, the number of people who have joined watches - which are free and easy to join and run - has increased. The contribution of Neighbourhood Watch can make a real difference by giving officers information they might not otherwise receive, as well as providing members with up-to-the minute information about crimes in their area, helping them to take steps to keep their neighbourhoods secure.
"These kinds of actions, where people are community-spirited and step in to make a stand, are what we depend upon in policing," said Supt Dilip Amin, commander of Reading Local Police Area.
"We know there are hundreds of people in this borough who love Reading and want to make it a safe and reassuring place for everyone to live and this is why we have organised such a massive event."
Forums - such as the Safer Reading Forums, area beat officers' surgeries and public meetings will all be advertised so people can attend and make their views and ideas known. Policing in Reading is changing to a style where local solutions to local problems will be at the heart of all the force does. Public meetings, in which police, partner agencies and residents meet to identify problems and solutions, will be part of this policing style.
Details of the police reorganisation and the new style of policing Thames Valley is adopting will be available, as well as details of local policing teams, how to contact them and where to meet them.
Crime reduction experts will be on hand so people can be equipped with the tools and knowledge need to fight back against crime.
Chief Inspector Geoff Smith, who heads recruitment for Thames Valley Police, said: "Thames Valley Police is one of the country's most forward-looking and modern police forces. It is a major employer in the region and offers variety, challenge and excellent career opportunity. Thames Valley Police looks to reflect the communities which it serves in the composition of its workforce and it is totally committed to equal opportunity. If you are looking for a career in policing then this event is one you should not miss."
10am - 7pm
Holiday Inn
Richfield Avenue
Last updated Saturday, 14-Aug-2010 19:28:12 BST