Lib Dems listened to residents' concerns and the new turnaround plan which promises more trust, less crime and higher standards, put forward by the Metropolitan Police.

The Police has not exactly been a beacon of righteousness or even law and order lately - so the Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has promised a turnaround of the force - to be a force for good.

Connie Hersch Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Policing and Communities said: "The Metropolitan police have some serious challenges here to effect culture change, instil better values, train up leaders in their own ranks, to stamp out misogynistic behaviour and deal with female victims appropriately. For women who feel unsafe, for whatever reason, in public spaces - especially going out at night, there is now a safety initiative called 'Ask for Angela'. Staff in bars and clubs will be supportive if a woman asks for help by asking to speak to 'Angela'. This code-phrase indicates to staff that the requester is looking for help and assistance. The police have made promises before that have not translated into positive actions so Liberal Democrats are not yet convinced."

The plan is to deliver three promises in the next two years: more trust, less crime, higher standards delivered with integrity, professionalism, compassion, courage and respect. It is published at www.met.police.uk/turnaround-plan

The plan is to have one superintendent for each borough, designated officers for each ward making up the Safer Neighbourhoods Teams and two ward panel meetings a year open to the public.

Connie Hersch Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Policing and Communities was listening to residents' concerns which include new promises e.g. for police officers to attend to burglaries in person, as well as well known others - like the wish to have Ealing Police station back open.

There is a drive to improve diversity in police teams to increase alignment with borough residents, easier reporting, victim engagement and to provide strengthened neighbourhood policing. 

It was emphasised that the police rely on the interaction and input from the public who can be their eyes and ears to report crime, deliver observations and information to prevent and tackle crime. A new police IT system just launched should enable officers to make better use of such information. There is need for volunteers to help around their neighbourhood and a good starting point could be the next ward panel meeting which can be found here with your local police team and crime statistics in your area: www.met.police.uk/area/your-area