TACKLING antisocial behaviour and crime in Copeland was under the spotlight during a ministerial visit.

The Minister of State for Crime, Safeguarding and Vulnerability, Victoria Atkins, met with staff at the Copeland Hub, based at Whitehaven Police Station, to showcase and discuss the multi-agency approach to the area's crime prevention.

The multi-tier agency is funded by Cumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner and ran in partnership with Copeland Council and Cumbria Constabulary.

It has recently celebrated its second anniversary and the initiative is now being rolled out nationwide following its pilot success.

The visit, on Thursday, was organised by Copeland MP, Trudy Harrison, who unfortunately could not make it to the meeting due to the weather, but praised the initiative, saying: “The Copeland Hub’s holistic, multi-agency approach is proof that organisations working collaboratively is the most effective way to help people."

She continued: “I commend the incredibly hard work of all involved in delivering such services, and I am pleased that the Minister has learned more about the significant work taking place at The Hub to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, whilst providing help to people across Copeland.”

Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “The Minister was able to experience first-hand the exceptional work being undertaken by the Copeland Hub – a multi-agency approach to addressing the issues that are impacting communities. We had a positive conversation, and outlined the support that we need from the Ministry Of Justice to help fund a Women’s Centre for West Cumbria, which will support vulnerable victims and reduce the potential of women becoming perpetrators of crime.”

Organisations already involved include housing associations, mental health groups, Age UK, drug and alcohol support services who work together in the hopes of tackling anti-social behaviour, as well as offering help and advice.

Louise Coid, Copeland Hub manager, said: “The Copeland Hub was delighted to welcome the Minister to promote the benefits of a multi-agency approach to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime in our local communities. It is an honour that the work of the Hub in Copeland has been recognised in Parliament, and that we can share our approach with other authorities.”