POLICE in Helensburgh saw a rise in near-fatal overdose incidents in the town in the early part of this year, a report has revealed.
Officers are now taking steps to improve information sharing, as well as delivering presentations to young people across the area.
“Productive meetings” have also taken place around Loch Lomondside regarding seasonal anti-social behaviour ahead of summer.
The details feature in a report to go before Argyll and Bute Council’s Helensburgh and Lomond area committee on Tuesday, June 9.
A spokesperson for the police said: “At the start of the year, we [saw a rise in] near-fatal overdose incidents in Helensburgh. Consequently, a multi-agency response was arranged with partners in health, education and social work.
“By improving our information sharing and joint working we have implemented safety plans and support networks for vulnerable individuals.
“We have a new youth engagement officer in place in Helensburgh who is delivering targeted presentation to young persons across the area.
“Our National Policing Together team have arranged national CPD (continual professional development) training opportunities which is available to partners across several sectors. The training covers a host of current topics such as vaping and domestic violence.
“We continue to support individuals through a victim centred approach. Our officers receive regular training and guidance to ensure that we are supporting those affected with a professionalism and empathy.
“Public protection is often complex. Policing on its own is not the solution. By working in partnership, taking a multi-agency approach, increasing public confidence and raising public awareness, we are better placed to identify threat, manage risk and prevent harm.”
The report added: “Violent crime is often sporadic and influenced by alcohol. Our high visible direct patrols and support of our nighttime economy is key to reducing violence in our communities.
“Argyll and Bute Council have invested in CCTV upgrades across the region, which will be vital in supporting local policing through crime prevention and increasing detections.
“ASB (antisocial behaviour) in rural communities can have a stronger impact as it often takes place within smaller close-knit villages. Low level ASB can increase fear, especially among older residents.
“Our geographical challenges can also result in slower response times allowing problems to persist longer. Our recent Crimestoppers campaign highlighted and promoted a need for greater community intelligence, and we encourage our communities to report ASB concerns in confidence.
“Argyll and Bute Council have invested in CCTV upgrades across Argyll. Moving from analogue to digital will provide far greater investigative opportunities for local policing whilst enhancing the visual deterrent within our community.
“We have had productive meetings with Duck Bay Marina, the National Parks and other stakeholders in Loch Lomond in relation to [seasonal] ASB.
“Operation Ballaton is now in place to provide support to Luss and its surrounding villages as a consequence of the increase in footfall over the summer months particularly during periods of good weather.”
