With Coronavirus restrictions lifting, Police in Dudley are increasing their visibility to help local residents feel safe.

The national lockdown that ended on 29 March caused a big reduction in crime, similar to that seen at the beginning of the pandemic last year. But with looser restrictions now allowing more people to leave home and enjoy time in bars and public spaces, figures have already been rising.

You might see more officers out and about in Dudley this week than you have in the last 18 months, however the force's message is not to be alarmed - they’re simply there to keep you safe, deter and prevent crime.

Chief's say there's a number of initial steps planned, including:

• Test purchasing in collaboration with Trading Standards
• Extra patrols in areas where crime has risen most in recent weeks
• Speed checks on busier roads
• Searches in parks for knives and other weapons
• Schools inputs on anti-social behaviour and knife crime
• Robbery prevention events and bike marking sessions

Local officers will be keeping an eye out for vulnerable people who may need help with drug addiction, substance misuse, homelessness and other serious issues. Where necessary, they will refer people to local charities and organisations that offer specialist help and support.

You can visit the West Midlands Police website for information and useful crime prevention advice or you can use live chat to report crime between 8am and midnight. Alternatively, you can call 101 anytime.