The Safer City Unit (SCU) forms part of the Local Policing Team within Aberdeen city centre.
The role has a diverse responsibility within the heart of the city and comprises a number of experienced police officers, all of whom add a wealth of knowledge to the unit.
The SCU carries out daily patrols of Aberdeen city centre to provide reassurance whilst proactively engaging with members of the public, allowing them to voice their concerns and bring anything of note to our attention.
While on patrol, we in the SCU deal with a variety of ongoing matters that are presented in front of us, from acts of criminality to antisocial behaviour to welfare matters and more.
As part of our duties, we frequently liaise with businesses and retailers within the city centre to maintain working partnerships.
It achieves the common goal of keeping the city centre an inviting and safe environment for all.
Boots-on-the-ground
I have personally worked Aberdeen city centre for nine years and would suggest I am well versed on the beat, with a strong understanding of the day and nighttime economy.
I joined the SCU approximately one year ago.
This role has given me an opportunity to utilise a more boots-on-the-ground approach to city centre policing.
That allows me to interact with numerous people on a daily basis who would otherwise not come into contact with a police officer.
Initiatives to target issues
As part of the SCU, we carry out a number of initiatives to target issues brought to our attention within the city centre and have run various initiatives.
One example, Operation Galaxite, was implemented to coincide with the school summer holidays this year.
It followed a rapid rise in youth anti-social behaviour within Aberdeen city centre.
The operation ensured that the area remained a safe space for those who reside, work and socialise within it – including youths.
During this time, the SCU conducted appropriate enforcement with instances of criminality being reported.
In addition and where relevant, partners were utilized to address the root causes of youth anti-social behaviour and complete early intervention to avoid future criminality.
As part of this, the officers within the SCU recognised that there was a lot of positive engagement with the majority of youths.
Open, honest discussions
However, whilst socialising in large groups, the behaviour could quickly deteriorate.
We would encourage parents or guardians to have open, honest discussions with the young people in their families in relation to their socialising activities and appropriate behaviour.
The Christmas season is fast approaching, bringing the arrival of festive patrols which will recommence at the end of this month.
There will be a noticeable police presence within the city centre, providing high-visibility patrols throughout the festive period.
Acts of criminality
Officers from the SCU will be conducting daily patrols to engage with an array of premises within the retail and business sector.
They will engage with any security staff to provide reassurance during the busy period, as well as deter and detect any acts of criminality.
The officers within the SCU are a visible resource within Aberdeen city centre and are an addition to those working in their respective Local Policing Teams throughout the city.
If you are in the city centre for whatever reason, don’t hesitate to have a conversation with us.
We are always happy to have a chat and assist wherever possible. Our aim is for everyone to enjoy the city centre areas safely.
