AS new changes to community policing take effect across Cumbria, the man in charge of the neighbourhood operation in Barrow, Inspector Jim Bailey, speaks about his plans to tackle anti-social behaviour and clean up Egerton Court.

The inspector, who has more than 20 years of service in the force, is keen to get stuck into his new role, and go back to basics and get officers back on the streets.

"We want to get better at finding out what issues there are and we want people to voice their opinions.

"We are working towards being more visible and are trying to support the residents towards beating crime by having boots on the ground.

"The main priority is always going to be about 24/7 policing," said Insp Bailey.

EXCLUSIVE: Insp Jim Bailey speaks about his role in Barrow's Neighbourhood policing team

When Cumbria's Neighbourhood Policing teams were established, their main aim was to identify priority areas for their community.

While the former Greater Manchester police officer is confident his team can make a strong impact, he is also relying on the support offered by partner agencies to tackle the complex issues seen in Barrow.

"We are all about partnerships now and community work.

"We are doing lots of work in Egerton Court with private landlords, Environmental Health and the Maritime Apartments staff - we have a sit down and see what roles everyone can do.

"Our prime role is about enforcement, but it's always about helping people and making changes for the better

"Policing has changed a lot over the years and we deal with a lot of safeguarding issues and see a lot of vulnerable people."

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The 45-year-old, who is originally from Burnley, praised the work the force already does in dealing with substance misuse and said: "I had never experienced more alcohol issues anywhere else, we see so many issues with that.

"In Barrow we've always had a good relationship with schools, and mental health is a key partnership for us.

"It is very rare we see someone in custody who has no issues.

"We do need partners; there's no way we can do this alone."

• Read our third and final interview with Insp Jim Bailey tomorrow when speaks about the hard work and dedication of Barrow's PCSOs.

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