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PCC statement on the easing of lockdown restrictions

14th May 2021

 

PRESS STATEMENT – Friday 14th May, 2021

EASING OF LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS ON MONDAY 17TH MAY#

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness:

Things are looking up as Monday brings the easing of restrictions that many have longed for. I am thankful to the vast majority of people in our region who have understood the need for the measures and followed them. I am also thankful to Northumbria Police, which through-out the challenges, has always been a Force keen to get the balance right while ensuring laws have been adhered to. None of this has been easy for anyone but public safety has always been the top priority, and will continue to be.

Looking ahead, as your Police and Crime Commissioner, my focus is clear. Our region needs to ensure that the easing of restrictions does not lead to a rise in crime. Work supporting our communities and the most vulnerable has never been so important and the prevention work led by my Violence Reduction Unit, fighting and preventing crime, has a huge role to play supporting Northumbria Police.

While it’s great to see life open back up, it’s important we keep doing the things that help us stay safe – washing hands, keeping your distance, especially in light of the new variant of the virus that has reached the UK.

Things may be improving but there are still rules in place and our police are there to police them – doing their job to help keep people safe. And remember, the easing of restrictions may be a little unnerving for some, and so we need to be mindful and respectful of this.

So, enjoy taking steps closer to normality, but do so with care so we don’t undo all the progress we have made. Let’s focus on the future and let’s help the North East come out of these difficult times stronger than before.