Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner visited Goldthorpe in Barnsley on Tuesday 5 May.

The Commissioner spoke with police officers and school staff engaging with pupils at Dearne ALC on Project D.  This programme is designed to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation, alcohol abuse and domestic abuse to young people.

He later looked around Goldthorpe with Police Sergeant Julie Emsden and PCSO Angela Goddard, who highlighted the work being done in the community to address issues of antisocial behaviour and littering.  He spoke with local residents and they explained about the ‘Adopt a Street’ initiative they are running in their neighbourhood.

Dr Billings said: “The residents are all pulling together to help regenerate the streets of Goldthorpe.  The women I spoke to today are extremely passionate about their community. The links they have with the police in Goldthorpe is very reassuring as is their commitment.

“I have heard today how antisocial behaviour, once a big problem in this local community, is decreasing significantly due to the efforts of police, partners and residents.”

The Commissioner went on to visit Goldthorpe Primary School, touring the building and answering questions from some of the older pupils.  He then visited the Community Shop to learn how it works with the community. Finally, he met with local letting agents who explained to the Commissioner some of the problems that arise with the rental properties in Goldthorpe, especially where the landlords are absentees.

He said: “I have been very heartened by the visit to Goldthorpe and the way in which people are working together to make Goldthorpe a cleaner and safer place to live.  The officers here have worked exceptionally hard with the community.”