There is no doubt that 2020 has been a difficult year for us all, and in terms of policing, the pandemic brought its own challenges, writes Inspector Paul Daley.
As people entered lockdown and were either furloughed or working from home, police officers alongside other key workers continued to deliver a service, despite the health risks to themselves and their families.
During that time my team and I had an important part to play in terms of reassurance.
As we carried out our patrols, it was hard not to feel a tinge of sadness at seeing our usually bustling and vibrant businesses, bars and restaurants fall silent.
The emptiness of Byres Road and the lanes, however, was juxtaposed with the warmth shown to us by the people of the West End as we passed by their homes; be that a wave from the door or a child’s thank you message posted in the window.
As a local resident, that community spirit was no surprise to me and it was heartening to see how neighbours rallied to help our most vulnerable at a difficult time.
The restrictions placed on all of us were unprecedented and as a service we had to find the right balance between encouraging people to do the right thing and enforcing the new legislation.
When summer arrived and people started to move around again, the demand on police quickly returned to normal levels.
In response, we have had to adapt to a more ‘COVID secure’ approach as many of you will have had to do in your own working lives. It does make things trickier, but we have got used to it now.
The restrictions placed on all of us were unprecedented and as a service we had to find the right balance between encouraging people to do the right thing and enforcing the new legislation
Inspector Paul Daley
The aim of your Community Policing team is to make the West End as safe as possible, and we need you to tell us when something is not right.
For example, your calls helped us when there was some disappointing behaviour by a minority of young people over the summer in Hyndland/ Broomhill or more recently in response to a spate of housebreakings.
We are always available on the usual numbers but you can also contact us at GreaterGlasgowLPSTPartick@scotland.pnn.police.uk.
Looking forward to 2021, I am keen to further build on our community links.
We already have a police officer aligned to every community council and school in the area, but I am keen to work more closely with community groups.
Please do get in touch if there is anything we can do for you.
On behalf of the Community Policing team at Partick, I would like to wish all West Enders a Happy Christmas and the all very best for 2021!
