New multi-agency hub launched at South Shields Interchange

The South Tyneside Engagement and Partnership (STEP) Team will be based within the interchange and comprises partners from Northumbria Police, South Tyneside Council and Nexus – as well as co-operation from bus operators.

The town centre location will ensure officers and transport staff maintain a visible presence and are best placed to respond to any issues or concerns as they arise.

Its introduction is in response to community concerns relating to anti-social behaviour and crime in and around the transport interchange.

The STEP Team will operate alongside the existing town centre neighbourhood policing team, providing an enhanced and coordinated approach to problem-solving and community engagement.

It is also hoped the increased visibility will help deter individuals from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour, while creating a safer and more welcoming environment for residents, visitors and businesses.

Chief Superintendent Darren Adams, Northumbria Police’s Anti-Social Behaviour lead, said: “We are committed to protecting our communities and ensuring our efforts are focused where they’re needed most.

“We have listened to community feedback and understand the transport interchange can attract unwanted behaviour from a select number of individuals.

“That is why, together with partners, we have launched the STEP Team to tackle this issue head-on and help ensure our area remains a welcoming place for all.”

The new team will build on the close partnership working already taking place to tackle anti-social behaviour in South Shields town centre.”

Erika Allen, Quality, Health, Safety, Security and Environment (QHSSE) Director at Nexus, said: “South Shields Transport Interchange is a key regional gateway and we are determined to keep it safe and secure for the public.

“This new joint South Tyneside Engagement and Partnership will ensure there is a much more frequent and visible presence at the interchange, which is something customers have asked for.

“We always work closely with the police and the local authority to deal with any issues of anti-social behaviour that may arise.”

Ch Supt Adams added: “I want this to be a clear message to anyone considering becoming involved in anti-social behaviour in South Shields town centre that it will not be tolerated.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe and confident while travelling and we will continue to do everything in our power to make sure that’s the case.

“I want people to know we are here to help, and I would encourage anyone with concerns to approach an officer on duty.”

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth, said: “Residents have been clear that anti-social behaviour is something they want to see tackled, and it’s so important that we listen and respond. That’s why it’s great to see initiatives like the South Shields Interchange Hub, which is all about bringing partners together to address local concerns, engaging positively with young people and helping make the area feel safer and more welcoming for everyone.

“It complements the work already happening through the Safer Transport Northumbria Partnership and Northumbria Police’s ASB Action Plan. It’s taking practical action on the issues people tell us matter most – delivering safer streets and stronger communities.”

Cllr Karen Pittuck, Lead Member for Highways, Neighbourhoods and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, said: “We want everyone who lives, works, visits or does business in South Shields town centre to feel safe and welcome, and the new STEP Team strengthens our joint approach to tackling anti-social behaviour.

“Having the Council, police and partners working side by side in the heart of the town centre will provide a visible and reassuring presence, while allowing us to share information and intelligence and respond quickly to issues as they arise.

“Anti-social behaviour can have a real impact on people’s confidence and their experience of the town centre, so we will continue working closely with our partners to tackle concerns and help make South Shields a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”

Members of the public are also reminded that concerns relating to anti-social behaviour can be reported via direct message on Northumbria Police’s social media channels or by submitting a report form on the Force’s website.

Those who are unable to contact the Force using these methods should call 101.

Concerns can also be reported via the Council’s reporting page: Report anti-social behaviour – South Tyneside Council. The page includes options to report online, email asb@southtyneside.gov.uk, call 0300 123 6633 during published hours or contact the Council’s customer contact centre on 0191 427 7000.

Customers can report an issue on the Tyne and Wear Metro via a special WhatsApp number – 07345 222 710 –  and the via the Pop App. . This could be anything from vandalism, graffiti, rowdy behaviour and holding doors open, to abusing and threatening other customers or employees

In an emergency always call 999.