The Community Safety Podcast

How does the national charity Crimestoppers work? CEO Mark Hallas OBE takes us through all the key elements of the service. Comprehensive Show Notes to follow.

A conversation with Michelle Bauge about her growing up years in Glasgow and how empowering young people makes our communities safer. Comprehensive Show Notes to follow.

Nazir Afzal   Nazir Afzal OBE was Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England, and most recently, he was Chief Executive of the country’s Police & Crime Commissioners. During a 24 year career, he has prosecuted some of the most high-profile cases in the country, including the so-called Rochdale grooming gang, and led nationally on several legal topics, notably violence against women and girls, child sexual abuse, and honor-based violence. Nazir was recently appointed to the ⁠Independent Press Standards Organisation⁠ (IPSO) and is ⁠National Adviser on Gender-Based Violence⁠ to the Welsh Government.     Nazir joins me today to discuss his experience of growing up in inner-city Birmingham and why it could be a frightening place for his family and community. He shares what he found so fulfilling about working in the Crown Prosecution Service and how a move to London allowed him to build his skill set, develop and grow. Nazir also describes his involvement in the Rochdale case, the bravery of the young women giving evidence, and why it subsequently triggered a change in guidelines for cross-examinations in sensitive cases.      "The real answers come from within the community." - Nazir Afzal    Today on The Community Safety Podcast:  Nazir's experience of racism and hate crime as a teenager and a professional  The lightbulb moment that drew Nazir towards becoming a lawyer.  The opportunity that allowed him to pursue a more even work-life balance  Why Nazir had to have a panic alarm installed in his house at one point and how that affected his life and his career  The case that stands out in Nazir's mind and how it was brought to a successful conclusion by a diverse team of professionals   Nazir's thoughts on how to break the cycle of imprisonment and criminal behaviour  Some of the positives that have come out of the COVID-19 pandemic    Connect with Nazir Afzal:  ⁠Nazir Afzal Website⁠  ⁠Nazir Afzal on LinkedIn⁠  ⁠Nazir Afzal on Twitter⁠  Connect with The Community Safety Podcast:  ⁠The Community Safety Podcast Website⁠  ⁠The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook⁠  ⁠The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter⁠ 

The drug war in the UK and worldwide has been going on for a long time. It's not new to see news coverage on buy busts and undercover operations. It makes us more aware of the drug problem, but also lulls us into a false sense of security that things are improving. In reality, these drug busts pose more threats to our community safety. In this episode, Neil Woods gives a sneak peek into the life of an undercover cop. He shares talks about the futility of the drug war and how it empowers organised crime. So many vulnerable individuals get caught in the crossfire between criminal organisations and the police. Fortunately, Neil shares that there is some change happening. He also details the concrete steps we must take to win this fight against drugs.  Tune in to this episode to find out the truth about the drug war and what you can do to help end it!  Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode: Discover the ugly truth behind drug policy and why it needs to change. Learn about Neil’s experiences and realisations from working as an undercover cop. Find out what you can do to aid the social movement against the drug war.  Resources ⁠Noise App⁠ Connect with Neil:⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠ | ⁠Twitter⁠ Grab a copy of Neil’s⁠ Drug Wars⁠ and⁠ Good Cop, Bad War⁠ now! ⁠Why major drug busts don’t work: an undercover cop explains⁠ Episode Highlights About the Young Neil Woods Neil grew up in the middle-class town of Buxton in the Peak District. He admits that he had a sheltered upbringing. He went to university by mistake, thinking he would be interested in Business Studies. He dropped out shortly after. While backpacking around Europe, he saw an advertisement for the police in the local newspaper and flipped a coin. The result eventually set him on his career path. Wanting to do something different and adventurous every day brought him to policing. His Early Years in the Police At the start, Neil found policing to be a shock. Being a 19-year-old, he was naive and had no experience with handling conflict.  He almost got kicked out during his probation and hated the first two years. But he wanted to prove to himself that he could get past two years, so he hung on by the skin of his teeth. How Neil Started Working Undercover If you struggle in the police, your colleagues will perceive you as useless and unreliable. Neil experienced this as well. To get a fresh start, he moved to another station in Glossop.  During that time, in the early to mid-90s, the government pushed police forces to prioritise the drug war.

Deputy Chief Constable Andy Prophet is the National Police Lead on Anti-Social Behaviour. Take a listen to this really honest interview. Comprehensive Show Notes to Follow.

Caroline Goode served for 33 years in the Metropolitan Police in London. She retired as a Detective Superintendent in the Counter-Terrorism Command after spending ten years leading more than 100 complex murder investigations. One of those investigations, the so-called honour killing of a young Iraqi Kurdish woman by her family, was to become a life changer for Caroline. This investigation, which began as a simple missing person’s report, was particularly challenging and complex. After the Banaz case, she trained thousands of police officers nationally and internationally in Honour Based Violence Awareness and was awarded the Queens Policing Medal for her work in 2012. Caroline joins me today to detail the damage that honour-based violence still does to women in the UK and explains her role in the shocking murder of 20-year-old Banaz Mahmod, which was subsequently dramatised in the TV series Honour starring Keeley Hawes. She shares her experience of joining the Metropolitan Police as an 18-year-old woman and some of the challenges she faced at the start of her career. Caroline also discusses why she looked to progress her career in the Metropolitan Police in complex investigative work and why she has always preferred to work in teams that support victims. "We need to keep raising awareness of honour-based violence about it in whichever format we can - there needs to be a wholly consistent approach, or we’re going to end up in a situation where these murders continue to happen ." - Caroline Goode Today on The Community Safety Podcast: How Caroline's interest in becoming a detective began with a traumatic experience Why she fought to get maternity regulations changed in the Metropolitan Police Caroline's first role as a Senior Investigating Officer and the investigation that changed her life The story of Caroline’s involvement in the horrific Banaz Mahmod case and the eureka moment that eventually helped her team to bring her murderers to justice The difficulty of extraditing two of Banaz’s killers from Iraqui Kurdistan and how Caroline made legal history during the process

Murder!!!!You've watched the TV shows involving murder investigations.Want to know what it's really like to investigate a murder then tune into the next episode of The Community Safety Podcast.This week former Detective Inspector Steven Keogh provides real insights into this type of investigation. Comprehensive Show Notes to follow.

Doctor Paul Stewart is a notable figure with an extraordinary life journey that spans beyond his illustrious career as a footballer in the Premier League, having played for renowned clubs such as Manchester City, Spurs, and Liverpool. In 2016, he bravely stepped into the limelight to unveil a deeply personal and painful chapter from his childhood. Paul disclosed that he had endured sexual abuse by his football coach from the tender age of 10 to 14. His courageous decision to share this profound and difficult truth not only demonstrates immense resilience but also sparked crucial conversations about safeguarding young athletes and addressing the pervasive issue of abuse within the realm of sports. Paul, we extend our heartfelt thanks to you. "In the world of sports, courage extends beyond the playing field. Dr. Paul Stewart's journey, from the heights of a Premier League footballer to the depths of disclosing his painful past, exemplifies resilience. His decision to share a deeply personal experience not only shook the foundations of football but ignited crucial conversations on safeguarding. The ripple effect is clear—more attention, better policies. Yet, as we progress, let's not forget, that parents play a pivotal role. Education is the key, asking simple questions ensures the safety of our children. Let's redefine the norm and make safeguarding a shared responsibility. Together, we can protect the future of our young athletes." Impact on Identity: Paul shares that the most challenging aspect was the potential loss of identity as a footballer, transitioning from being an athlete to an abuse victim. Emotional Rollercoaster: Coming forward involved emotional challenges, considering the impact on family, dealing with interviews, and the overwhelming response from individuals nationwide. Importance of safeguarding policies Understanding the importance of what football means to young boys and girls, "it is a safe haven for them" Family's Reaction: Paul needed to ensure his family was okay with his disclosure. The revelation was not only difficult for him but also impacted his family, including his brothers, who were unaware of the abuse. Guilt and Manipulation: Paul discusses how abusers were master manipulators, not just grooming the individual but also manipulating the wider family, making it difficult for parents to detect. Evolution of Grooming: Paul highlights the worrying evolution of grooming techniques, emphasising the role of social media and the internet in providing easier access to children. Contributions to Child Protection: Paul reflects on the positive changes in child protection in sports since 2016. Many individuals, including Gary Harris, worked on improving safeguarding procedures and policies. Parental Education: Paul emphasises the need for educating parents on safeguarding, as many still believe abuse happens elsewhere and may not fully understand the importance of checks on organisations. Importance of Parental Questions: Parents should ask simple questions about safeguarding policies, contact information, and problem resolution when leaving their children in organisations. Paul encourages parents to be proactive in ensuring their children's safety. These key points shed light on the emotional and societal aspects surrounding child safeguarding, particularly in the context of sports.

Chris Williams is a seasoned professional in community safety, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to his roles. With a background as a senior advisor for the Home Office and former head of public protection for a London borough, Chris has demonstrated a solid commitment to enhancing public safety.  Recently, he has taken on a new position as the strategic lead for community safety with the Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, where he is expected to leverage his extensive knowledge to contribute to developing and implementing effective community safety strategies.  Chris's diverse background and leadership roles underscore his dedication to creating safer environments and addressing the complexities of public protection. "I've always had this earliest background and that drives everything that I do is about being evidence LED an intelligence LED. A lot of time and resource is wasted by well-intentioned people doing things 'cause they think it's probably a good idea or they like the sound of it.” - Chris Williams  Today on The Community Safety Podcast: Educational Background in Archaeology: Chris studied archaeology at university, and he emphasizes the connection between his archaeological background and community safety. Archaeology, for him, is about decoding the past and understanding human behaviour, which he found useful in his community safety work. Entry into Community Safety through Mapping: Chris initially worked for Ordnance Survey, specializing in geographic information systems (GIS) and digital mapping related to archaeology. His GIS experience led him to a role in the police, where he began drawing maps for crime prevention, specifically outlining areas for restricted access. National Reassurance Policing Programme: Chris played a pivotal role in the National Reassurance Policing Programme, which laid the groundwork for modern neighbourhood policing. The program focused on understanding community needs, mapping crime and disorder, and addressing signal crimes to enhance community safety. Early Work as an Analyst: Chris started as an analyst, initially focusing on signal crimes, and later became a specialist analyst supporting problem-solving processes. This role involved working closely with police teams and utilizing evidence-led and intelligence-led approaches. Integration of Neighbourhood Policing and Problem Solving: Chris highlights his involvement in integrating neighbourhood policing and problem-solving methodologies, particularly the SARAH model (Scanning, Analysis, Response, and Assessment of Harassment). This period marked the convergence of community-oriented policing strategies. Importance of Evidence-Led and Intelligence-Led Approaches: Chris emphasizes the significance of being evidence-led and intelligence-led in community safety efforts. He advocates for informed interventions supported by evidence, citing the What Works Centre at the College of Police as a positive example. Challenges in Policy Making: Chris discusses the challenges of policy-making and the need for policymakers and politicians to base decisions on evidence. He notes the importance of understanding what interventions work and avoiding those that lack evidence, addressing the issue of ignorance in decision-making. Effective Offender Management: Chris identifies effective offender management as a key factor in crime reduction. He shares insights from his experience, particularly in integrated offender management programs, where a holistic approach is taken to address the needs of individuals, including domestic abuse offenders and those at risk of radicalization. Building Successful Partnerships: Chris discusses the essential elements for building successful partnerships in community safety. He acknowledges the diverse stakeholders involved, ranging from probation officers to community groups, and stresses the need for a multi-agency approach, sharing information, and providing support to individuals at risk.

Fatima Whitbread, an MBE and world record holder, is renowned for her accomplishments in athletics and tireless efforts to reform the care system in the UK. Fatima's remarkable journey began when she was abandoned as a baby and left to die in a flat. A vigilant neighbour heard her cries and alerted the police, leading to her rescue. Placed under the care of Hackney Borough Council, Fatima spent the first six months of her life in a hospital, battling malnutrition and nappy rash. Subsequently, she became a ward of court and spent the next 14 years in the care system, with the initial five years in a Hertfordshire children's home alongside 25 other children. This challenging upbringing fueled Fatima's determination to make a difference in the lives of children in similar circumstances. Today, she serves as the bass for the charity Action for Children, leveraging her experiences to advocate for care system reform. In addition to her role with Action for Children, Fatima has embarked on personal campaigns to raise awareness and bring about positive change within the care system. Her journey from abandonment to becoming a world record holder and an influential advocate exemplifies resilience and the potential for positive transformation, inspiring others to join her in making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children. "In giving, you receive. Auntie Ray taught me this invaluable lesson. She was my bright shining star, the person who understood the plight of children in the care system. She gave me love, security, and a sense of belonging. Through her, I learned to call out injustice, not just for myself, but for all those kids who needed a safe and happy childhood. Today, my mission is to be a voice for these children, to bring together partnerships and build the power of sport, providing them with opportunities, focus, and the chance to learn essential life skills. Mentors are crucial in those formative years, helping children navigate a challenging path and avoid falling foul of the law. I share my experiences to emphasize the importance of awareness and support for these vulnerable kids, giving them the love they crave and the chance to be heard." Today on The Community Safety Podcast: Fatima shares her backstory, being abandoned as a baby and rescued by the police after a neighbour heard her crying. Fatima’s Early Years in the Care System Challenges in the Care System: The care system in the 60s lacked emotional support, with communal living, minimal explanations to children, and a lack of individual care. Fatima Meeting Biological Mother at the age of 5  Separation from Siblings Failed Reintegration Attempt - Social workers tried to reintegrate Fatima with her family, but it failed when her mother rejected her, leading to feelings of abandonment Impact of Positive Mentorship - Auntie Ray, a caregiver, played a crucial role in Fatima's life, providing emotional support and a sense of belonging. Importance of Support for Children in Care: Fatima emphasises the need for mentorship and support for children in the care system, advocating for sports as a means of empowerment and self-worth. Additionally, she discusses the importance of awareness and giving these children a voice.The discussion sheds light on the challenges children face in the care system and the significance of positive influences and support in their lives.

For over 25 years, Sharon Bryan has worked in the field of domestic abuse. She is also a survivor of domestic abuse. In 2020. Sharon set up Sharon Bryan consultancy, a community interest company which involves running the Freedom Programme for women who have experienced domestic abuse. In January 2021, Sharon joined the award-winning National Centre for Domestic Violence as head of partnerships and development for domestic abuse services. Sharon joins me on the Community Safety Podcast to explain what life is like living with an abusive partner and why she stayed in an abusive relationship for so long. She describes the purpose of her new role working for the National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) and why the organisation feels it is so vital to build partnerships with other organisations that come into contact with people that are experiencing domestic abuse in their role. Sharon also shares her concerns that domestic violence is still so prevalent and why the NCDV is so committed to making it completely socially unacceptable. "I try to be the person that I wish had been there for me and wasn't. Because it's a very, very lonely place when you don't know who to talk to. You don't know if you'll be believed. You can be in a room full of people and feel like you're the only person in there." - Sharon Bryan Today on The Community Safety Podcast: ● When and why Sharon’s husband’s violent behaviour escalated and what she had in common with other sufferers of domestic violence ● The awful catalyst that led to Sharon fleeing her marriage ● The trauma that children experience when they are caught up in abusive relationships ● How the Assist Database works to help police assist victims of domestic violence ● Sharon’s advice for somebody that is experiencing what she went through ● Sharon’s role as a facilitator for the Freedom Programme and how it gives women the tools that they need to identify abusive behavior Connect with Sharon Bryan: ● Sharon Bryan Consultancy on Facebook ● Sharon Bryan on LinkedIn Connect with The Community Safety Podcast: ● The Community Safety Podcast Website ● The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook

Kathleen O'Toole, the former chief of police in both Boston and Seattle, and the inaugural Chief Inspector of the Garda Inspectorate in Ireland, tasked with overseeing the effectiveness and efficiency of the Garda. Her extensive background provides a well-rounded perspective on law enforcement, spanning both sides of the Atlantic. "In my journey through the corridors of policing on both sides of the Atlantic, from the gritty streets of Boston to the dynamic challenges of Seattle and the nuanced landscapes of Ireland, I reflect on a career sparked not by strategy but by a simple dare. The early days were marked by the adrenaline of crime-fighting, a whirlwind of arrests and pursuits. However, the realization dawned that beneath the surface, the heart of policing lay in aiding the vulnerable, in being there for those facing life's darkest moments." Kathleen O'Toole has a diverse background in law enforcement, having served as chief in Boston and Seattle police departments and as the first chief inspector of guarding spectra in Ireland. In the early 1970s, very few women were in policing in Boston. O'Toole joined the police force in 1979 on a dare from friends, and her early experiences were generally positive due to supportive mentors. Policing in the past was focused on fighting crime, with little emphasis on prevention and intervention. O'Toole acknowledges that the approach was exciting but led to a deterioration in the quality of life in the city. O'Toole highlights the need for effective mentorship, emphasizing how crucial it is for young officers to have the right guidance to avoid going down the wrong path. While O'Toole initially found the excitement in making felony arrests, she soon realized the broader scope of police work, with only a small percentage dedicated to violent crime. The majority involves assisting vulnerable individuals. O'Toole points out a challenge in recruiting police officers, attributing it to misconceptions fueled by TV shows that portray policing as constant car chases and gunfights. Policing challenges extend beyond traditional crime, as O'Toole discusses issues such as homelessness, addiction, and mental health crises, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. The intersection of public health and public safety is highlighted, with data showing that officers respond more frequently to mental health crises than to gunfights. O'Toole argues against a knee-jerk reaction to defund the police, advocating for a thoughtful approach that involves harnessing resources across different sectors to provide better solutions for communities. O'Toole emphasizes the importance of building solid teams and cites examples from her career, such as multidisciplinary approaches in Boston, comprehensive strategies for domestic violence in Massachusetts, and establishing a navigation team in Seattle to assist people experiencing homelessness.

Bonus EpisodeIain DonnellyFormer Superintendant of West Midlands Police,Iain Donnelly, has over 25 years in various intelligence, covert policing,counter-terrorism, and serious crime investigation roles in London and the WestMidlands. Iain is also the author of Tango Juliet Foxtrot and the presenter of a podcast of the same name, exploring how the British police have changed over the last 30 years inresponse to ten years of budget cuts combined with exponentially growingdemand.Iain joins me on the Community Safety Podcast to discuss why closing 50% of the policestations in England and Wales and 75% of the police stations in London had ahugely negative effect on effective relationship-building between policeofficers and the community they serve.  We dig into neighbourhood policing’simpact on the rise of knife crime in the UK, and Iain shares stories about hisfirst postings in London and what he learned about policing and human behaviourduring his training period. "Neighbourhood policing, forme, was such an unbelievably flexible resource to be able to problem solve allsorts of issues." - Iain Donnelly Today on The Community Safety Podcast:●       Iain’s experience of growing up in Belfast at the height of the Troubles in Northern Ireland●       How the British Army’s loss turned out to be the Metropolitan Police's gain The differences between methods of policing when Iain joined the service and when he left.●       Iain’s views on the efficacy of communitypolicing●       Why the Police Federation and the Superintendent's Association have been proved correct when they said ten years ago that harsh budget cuts would have far-reaching consequences for public safety ●       The impact of COVID-19 on the relationship between the police and the public●      Why Iain feels that social media has been toxic for policing●       Whether policing is seen as an attractive career option in 2022 Connect with Iain Donnelly:●       Iain Donnelly on LinkedIn●       Tango Juliet Foxtrot: How did it all go wrong for British policing?  by Iain DonnellyConnect with The Community Safety Podcast:●      TheCommunity Safety Podcast Website

Carl Chinn MBE Ph.D Carl Chinn, MBA Ph.D. Carl is a social historian with a national profile, a writer, a teacher, an animator, and a public speaker. He was formerly a professor of Community History at the University of Birmingham, and director of Birmingham Lives Project collecting working-class memories as a freelance social historian. He gives history tours of Birmingham and collaborates on local history projects in several schools. He's the author of 34 books, his latest words are Peaky Blinders: The Real Story, the true history of Birmingham's most notorious gangs, which was a Sunday Times number one bestseller. Carl joins me on the Community Safety Podcast to discuss why we should be valuing every young person and finding the challenge for everyone in our community whatever their talents and passions. He shares why we still need a radical transformation of our educational system to allow all young people to find their niche. Carl also discusses his historical interest in gangs in 1900’s Birmingham, and his research for the book Peaky Blinders: The Real Story. "It should be local people that are pushing everything forward, not outsiders, ... we've got to start promoting young working-class talents from all the backgrounds in Birmingham." - Carl Chinn  Today on The Community Safety Podcast: ● Carl’s perspective on growing up in a large storytelling family in Birmingham● Who were the ‘gaffers’ of the street in Aston in the 1950s and 1960s and how they were the anchors of the community at the time● How we can appreciate all sorts of skills and work to spotlight non-academic talents● Why we shouldn’t be snobbish about academic education● Perceptions about class and accent and why we should look beyond them to see value in people● The truth behind the TV series Peaky Blinders, and why they were not gentleman criminals but vicious thugs● Why it is so critical to provide opportunities for young people to avoid being drawn into crime in the 21st century● Carl’s views on how we can eradicate some of the violence on our streets  Connect with Carl Chinn: ● Carl Chinn on LinkedIn● Peaky Blinders: The Real Story by Carl ChinnConnect with The Community Safety Podcast:● The Community Safety Podcast Website● The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook● The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter ★

Alison CopeThe biggest trauma Alison Cope has ever faced was losing her son Joshua to knife crime in 2013, but she uses her resilience and strength to educate and support others in seeing a future beyond negative experiences. Alison presents the Joshua Ribera Achievement Awards that recognises and celebrates the achievements of young people who are not in mainstream education. Alison has also worked with West Midlands Police, Staffordshire Police, Hertfordshire Police, and Crimestoppers along with keynote speaking and lecturing at Birmingham and Nottingham universitiesAlison joins me on the podcast to share how Joshua had turned his life around and had evolved from writing about violence to focusing on positivity, working hard, and loving his family. She discusses why negative imagery in music is so dangerous to children and young people and why it is such a problem that it is so widely available on social media. Alison also share with me what happened on the day in September 2013 when Josh was murdered, and the moment that she realised how powerful her voice could be and why she decided to devote her life to helping young people "It’s Joshua’s life that inspires and his death educates. My focus isn't Joshua's death, my focus is Joshua's life, and to inspire young people to see a future with hope, regardless of their past.." - Alison Cope Today on The Community Safety Podcast: ● Alison’s upbringing and why it gave her the strength and determination to fight forwards ● Why the traumas that Alison faced growing up helped her to help Joshua, and see past challenging behaviour and see to the core of a young person ● The traumatic event that threw Joshua off the rails at 13 years old● Elements that led to Joshua’s custodial sentence and why Alison feels that it was a blessing in disguise● Joshua’s involvement in the grime scene and how he became so successful as a lyricist● Alison’s feelings about the man who killed her son and why she would like to meet him● Alison’s thoughts on how to reduce knife crime in this country and how she works with young people to change the mindset around violence Connect with Alison Cope: ● Ditch the Blade● Alison Cope on Facebook● Alison Cope on Twitter● Alison Cope on LinkedInConnect with The Community Safety Podcast:● The Community Safety Podcast Website● The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook● The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter ★ Support this p

Caroline Goode QPM Caroline Goode served for 33 years in the Metropolitan Police in London. She retired as a Detective Superintendent in the Counter-Terrorism Command after spending ten years leading more than 100 complex murder investigations. One of those investigations, the so-called honour killing of a young Iraqi Kurdish woman by her family, was to become a life changer for Caroline. This investigation, which began as a simple missing person’s report, was particularly challenging and complex. After the Banaz case, she trained thousands of police officers nationally and internationally in Honour Based Violence Awareness and was awarded the Queens Policing Medal for her work in 2012.  Caroline joins me today to detail the damage that honour-based violence still does to women in the UK and explains her role in the shocking murder of 20-year-old Banaz Mahmod, which was subsequently dramatised in the TV series Honour starring Keeley Hawes. She shares her experience of joining the Metropolitan Police as an 18-year-old woman and some of the challenges she faced at the start of her career. Caroline also discusses why she looked to progress her career in the Metropolitan Police in complex investigative work and why she has always preferred to work in teams that support victims.   "We need to keep raising awareness of honour-based violence about it in whichever format we can - there needs to be a wholly consistent approach, or we’re going to end up in a situation where these murders continue to happen ." - Caroline Goode   Today on The Community Safety Podcast:  How Caroline's interest in becoming a detective began with a traumatic experience Why she fought to get maternity regulations changed in the Metropolitan Police Caroline's first role as a Senior Investigating Officer and the investigation that changed her life The story of Caroline’s involvement in the horrific Banaz Mahmod case and the eureka moment that eventually helped her team to bring her murderers to justice The difficulty of extraditing two of Banaz’s killers from Iraqui Kurdistan and how Caroline made legal history during the process  Connect with Caroline Goode: Honour: Achieving Justice for Banaz Mahmod by Caroline Goode Caroline Goode Website Caroline Goode on Twitter Connect with The Community Safety Podcast: The Community Safety Podcast Website The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter 

Paul Walmsley Paul Walmsley, a qualified life coach, humanistic counsellor, and NLP practitioner and previously ‘Britain's Most Wanted’ criminal and spent five years on the run from the police before handing himself in in 2011. Towards the end of his ten-year prison sentence, he completed a teacher training qualification, then went on to become a tutor at a sports academy before being released on license in July 2016. Paul published his Amazon bestselling memoir, Just an Ordinary Decent Criminal, in 2017 and now participates in projects in the Merseyside area designed to guide young people away from a life of crime.Paul joins me today to share his experience of growing up in crime-filled Norris Green as the youngest of nine children and how he was led into a criminal lifestyle from the age of 10 years old. He discusses the misconception that dealing drugs leads to a glamorous lifestyle and why the risks and dangers significantly outweigh the benefits. Paul also shares how he began to work with young people as part of a community reparation scheme and how he works with national organisations to help disenfranchised youths understand the value of hard work and education.  “Some young people just need to know they’ve got somebody - give them a number, give them a website, let them know that you will never leave them. Once they’re ready to do the right thing, we’re here for them.”- Paul Walmsley“Let’s start writing young people in, not writing them off.” - Paul Walmsley Today on The Community Safety Podcast: ● The traumatic events that led Paul towards a drug-fueled lifestyle and how he moved from using to selling● The incident that led to him going on the run in Europe for five terrifying years● Why Paul decided to hand himself in to the British police● Paul's life in prison and why, although it was a tough experience that it was the best thing that could have happened to him● What motivated Paul to write his book Just an Ordinary Decent Criminal ● The danger of cannabis use and why it is close to becoming an epidemic in the UK● Why businesses are keen to take part in projects that support young people to get into meaningful work● How to improve outcomes for young people at risk and why it’s a whole community effort● Paul’s philosophy of never giving up on anyone  Connect with Paul Walmsley: ● The Lewis Dunne Foundation website● County Lines website ● Paul Walmsley on LinkedInConnect with The Community Safety Podcast:● The Community Safety Podcast Website● The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook● The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Nazir Afzal  Nazir Afzal OBE was Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England, and most recently, he was Chief Executive of the country’s Police & Crime Commissioners. During a 24 year career, he has prosecuted some of the most high-profile cases in the country, including the so-called Rochdale grooming gang, and led nationally on several legal topics, notably violence against women and girls, child sexual abuse, and honor-based violence. Nazir was recently appointed to the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) and is National Adviser on Gender-Based Violence to the Welsh Government.   Nazir joins me today to discuss his experience of growing up in inner-city Birmingham and why it could be a frightening place for his family and community. He shares what he found so fulfilling about working in the Crown Prosecution Service and how a move to London allowed him to build his skill set, develop and grow. Nazir also describes his involvement in the Rochdale case, the bravery of the young women giving evidence, and why it subsequently triggered a change in guidelines for cross-examinations in sensitive cases.    "The real answers come from within the community." - Nazir Afzal   Today on The Community Safety Podcast: Nazir's experience of racism and hate crime as a teenager and a professional The lightbulb moment that drew Nazir towards becoming a lawyer. The opportunity that allowed him to pursue a more even work-life balance Why Nazir had to have a panic alarm installed in his house at one point and how that affected his life and his career The case that stands out in Nazir's mind and how it was brought to a successful conclusion by a diverse team of professionals  Nazir's thoughts on how to break the cycle of imprisonment and criminal behaviour Some of the positives that have come out of the COVID-19 pandemic  Connect with Nazir Afzal:  Nazir Afzal Website Nazir Afzal on LinkedIn Nazir Afzal on Twitter Connect with The Community Safety Podcast: The Community Safety Podcast Website The Community Safety Podcast on Facebook The Community Safety Podcast on Twitter  

Anyone can be a target of Domestic Abuse with Samantha Beckinsale Samantha Beckinsale is an English actor best known for performances Firefighter Kate Stevens in the ITV series drama London's burning which ran from 1986 to 2002. She started her acting career with the TV series Agatha Christie's, the adventure of Johnny Waverley in 1989.  Sam is also known for playing Lesley in the sitcom Shelley from 1989 to 1992."The biggest thing I would say to anybody wondering whether abuse is just toxic? Take a step back, look at the bigger picture, and ask yourself what someone is doing or saying or how they're acting, especially if it's not acceptable in any other context. It's not acceptable in a relationship, either. Because you're in a relationship together, any relationship doesn't excuse abuse is abuse, and love doesn't come into it in any way, shape or form, so if you ask yourself if that is love, you have your answer".Today on The Community Safety Podcast:Sam talks about her life in the early years in Nottinghamshire.Her time working on the ITV series drama London’s burning, how they all had to do firefighting training, filming in a real fire station in South London.How she became a patron for Broxtowe Women's Project. What White Ribbon stands for.Her journey through domestic abuse, “I never thought it would happen to me”.The increase of domestic abuse cases during the ‘World Cup’.What are the red flags and the behaviour traits to look out for?  ‘Oh, My God’ moments.Who to reach out to for help when going through domestic abuse?  Grassroots organisations (IDVAs) are available in your local areas.Bring domestic abuse into the mainstream.  Training the younger generation.How shows like ‘Love Island’ are promoting domestic abuse to the younger generation.Sam explains how she was once homeless.How domestic abuse increases once the person decides to leave.The awareness that ‘you don’t need to be hit’, in order to go through domestic abuse.16 Days of Action Saveslives ‘I AM Project’Her latest a featured docu-drama titled ‘LOVE”Connect with Sam BeckinsaleSam Beckinsale TwitterSam Beckinsale LinkedInThe Community Safetypodcast Main SponsorOur main sponsor is RHE Global.  They have a product called Riams Community Safety.  Riams covers all your ASB case management needs plus up-to-date community safety processes and supporting documents and stores all your community safety content in one place.   Local edits can also be made so we can customise it for your own organisation and avoid expensive court costs by ensuring that you have the most up-to-date case law and keynote webinar support.   They have all the documents some of the topics to be covered will be the injunction closure powers community trigger community protection notice among a host of others subside.  For more information contact the team via  https://www.riams.org/ or email sales@rhpglobal.comConnect with The Community Safety Podcast:●      TheCommunity Safety Podcast Website●      a...

Violence and how we can tackle it in our communities with Graham GouldenGraham is a former Chief Inspector with Police Scotland, and he spent the last part of his 30 years of service working on the violence reduction unit. He's now a consultant trainer. His interest in developing personal and organisational brands and how individual and societal attitudes and behaviour often negatively impact reputation performance, absenteeism recruitment and retention. Graham has experienced delivering bystander training in a host of establishments, including schools, universities and workplaces. He's the director of cultivating minds in the UK and states it's all about relationships.We need to move into this conversation where we start with how we influence people in our communities to come along with us?  This is not about saying 'we are going to do this, you need to come with us'.  More and more, I  have thought about prevention; it's about how we will be persuading people to go with us?  For men, how are persuading them to take this role as leaders?  How are we going to persuade communities to follow us and work with them and take some proactive action, for me, we need to look at the science of persuasion. Graham GouldenToday on The Community Safety Podcast: Graham's early life and how he ended up joining the police in Scotland as a 19-year-old boy.How he started changing his transformation in thinking in 2018.  How he started challenging himself asking ‘if I am really making a difference?The power of community ‘there will never be peace in the streets if there is no peace in the home’.Prevention bystanding programme - how we can intervene as early as possible.The power of healthy relationships. Every child needs a champion.How early trauma can affect someone’s future.How can we get more boys and men to communicate?  Break down of ‘boys need stuff’.What is psychological safety?How important is good quality neighbouring policing?The importance of developing young people’s character.  Developing their own brand.  Character matters. Connect with Graham Goulden:Graham Goulden LinkedInGraham Goulden Cultivating Minds Website   Connect with The Community Safety Podcast:●      TheCommunity Safety Podcast Website●      TheCommunity Safety Podcast on Facebook●      https://www.instagram.com/the_community_safety_podcast