Covent Garden London
The heart of London's West End
Interview with Police Constable Barrington Thompson about the Covent Garden Community
Police Constable Barrington Thompson, who has been an officer in the Covent Garden area for approximately nine months, is part of the Sector Policing Unit. His responsibilities include meeting the general needs of the community, working out ways of combating the problems that individuals within the area may have, and visiting these individuals to look at their problems.
Since he began his service in the Covent Garden community, PC Thompson has put his full attention towards these responsibilities. "There was a drug problem in Dudley Court, where we were informed of people using the rear of the estate to shoot up. It was of principal concern to the parents who didn't want their children exposed to this. In response to that, we asked the Crime Prevention Officer to come up with a scheme to redesign the area. It was then proposed a gate system be installed. The report has been done and is waiting to be implemented. We also requested that lights be put up, which are now there."
The fight against drugs continues to be a difficult battle. However, new tactics such as Project Lilac are proving to be heading towards a solution. Project Lilac has brought two adjoining Police divisions together to work as one team. They plan to get to the root of the problem by offering professional help to addicts by getting them into rehab and long-term care and help.
Project Lilac is just one of the numerous projects underway to continue to help Covent Garden remain a pleasant and safe place for people to live and visit. Barrington has his own opinion of this unique community and how the role of police intertwines with its well-being. "I like the community spirit and the general set up of the Covent Garden area. It is a very popular spot. This is proven by the number of tourists who frequent the area. It has an appeal all of its own. I know that a sense of community exists quite strongly because I have attended tenants meetings, and CGCA meetings. The residential community seem to regard us (Police) highly. They may feel that they would like to see more of us, and a faster response time, but when they do see us they seem pleased to do so. I think that we offer reassurance. This has been mentioned by a number of people who feel reassured to see a uniformed officer."
Barrington shares the opinions of many when he tells of his thoughts and concerns for the Covent Garden community. Maintaining the uniqueness and beauty of this area, as well as keeping it's visitors and residents safe, sound, and comfortable are all current concerns for the police who look after this part of London. PC Thompson reassures all of us that "...there is a lot of work going on unseen. We currently have an operation going on in the Islington and Camden Divisions which has drafted a lot of manpower but which won't be seen by the public. There is a lot going on. Inroads have been made."
© Covent Garden Community Association, February 2001
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