Problem Orientated Partnerships Awards 2011

Judges will be looking for evidence of strong collaborative problem solving between the police and other agencies. That means identifying problems, what factors cause that problem to persist and designing innovative ways to reduce the problem's impact on people's lives.

The annual awards are a collaboration between the police, the MPA (Metropolitan Police Authority),TfL (Transport for London), which is the integrated body responsible for the capital's transport system and funds over 2500 uniformed officers on the transport system, London Councils, who lobby government and others, develop policy and run a range of services designed to make life better for Londoners and the SLF (Safer London Foundation), the independent charity that aims to reduce crime, promote community cohesion and develop safer neighbourhoods.

Cllr Christine Hamilton, Cabinet Member for Community and Wellbeing said: "We are delighted to support the POP awards which see the police, council and other public bodies working together to reduce anti social behaviour and crime which can be an issue in some areas.

"Our Safe as Houses scheme is one excellent example where agencies work seamlessly together to give advice and provide equipment to residents to prevent crime."

Inspector Kevin Straughan, MPS Problem Solving Unit, said: "This year has seen over 49 entries for the POP awards in the categories of Safer Communities and Safer Transport, the most entries received since its inception, up 63% on last year. As the benefits of problem orientated partnerships continue to rise, more boroughs are reaping the benefit of greater involvement in problem solving processes. Comment was made by the judging panel chair, Dr Stuart Kirby, as to the very high standard and wide variety of entries this year."

Steve Burton, TfL Director of Community Safety, Enforcement and Policing, said: "The POP awards provide a great opportunity to recognise the best problem orientated policing projects in the MPS to deal with crime and anti-social behaviour issues that affect our communities. The short-listed applicants should be very proud of what they have achieved. TfL is pleased to be involved in the awards again this year and work alongside the partners to support problem orientated policing within the MPS. "