In Cleveland, a region desiring significant improvement in law enforcement and public safety, Labour candidate Matt Storey stands out as a beacon of hope and commitment. Storey articulates a clear vision: “The people of Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, and Redcar & Cleveland deserve a police force that they can be proud of and that works for them.” This statement underscores his pledge to transform policing in an area burdened by the country’s highest crime rates under Conservative governance.

Matt Storey for Cleveland PCC

A Time for Change

Storey’s campaign comes at a critical time. “Under a Conservative government, Cleveland has the highest crime rate in the country. It is time for change with Labour,” he asserts. His call for change isn’t just rhetoric; it is backed by a series of robust, actionable commitments that focus on restoring community trust and enhancing police effectiveness.

Community and Support First

One of Storey’s key strategies is the reintroduction of community policing. He promises to “give every community a named police officer,” ensuring that local residents know who to turn to when they need help. This approach not only fosters familiarity but also accountability and presence, which are crucial in building a safer community environment.

Furthermore, acknowledging the dire need for specialised support systems, Storey plans to “fund domestic abuse support workers to work directly with police officers to support victims and increase domestic abuse prosecutions.” This initiative aims to provide immediate and effective support for victims while also enhancing the capacity to prosecute offenders, thereby addressing both prevention and enforcement.

Addressing Retail Crime and Homelessness

Storey is also setting his sights on tackling retail crime, which has been a growing concern for local businesses. His proposed Retail Crime Strategy focuses on “protecting shop workers from assault and tackling the organised gangs that steal from our High Streets,” demonstrating his commitment to protecting economic livelihoods and community welfare.

Moreover, his holistic approach to crime reduction includes tackling the root causes of crime, such as homelessness and substance abuse. By promising to “get rough sleepers off our streets and into permanent housing alongside providing drug treatment and mental health support,” Storey aims to address the systemic issues that often lead to criminal behaviour, thus preventing crime before it happens.

Integrity and Leadership

Finally, Storey emphasises the importance of integrity in his role as Police and Crime Commissioner. He vows to always act with integrity, adhering to the Nolan principles of public life, which include Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership. This commitment is crucial in restoring public confidence in the police force and the office of the Commissioner itself.

Conclusion

Matt Storey’s candidacy for Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner is a promising step forward for a region in dire need of change. His comprehensive plan to improve policing, coupled with his commitment to community support and integrity, presents a formidable challenge to the status quo and offers a hopeful outlook for the future of Cleveland’s public safety and community well-being.

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Locations: Cleveland, Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Middlesbrough and Thornaby East, Hartlepool, Stockton North, Stockton West, Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton South