by Martin Jefferies

mjefferies@thekmgroup.co.uk

Partygoers will be able to seek help from paramedics and police officers when an 'SOS trailer' launches in Thanet this summer.

The mobile unit is one of several innovative ideas aimed at driving down crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

It will be a safe haven for late-night revellers who may be injured or have had too much to drink, and will be parked outside pubs and clubs in Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs when it launches in June.

It will be followed a month later by the introduction of a street pastors scheme, which will see trained volunteers take to the streets to assist young people who feel vulnerable, excluded or marginalised.

Both ideas are part of the latest Community Safety Plan, which looks at local success stories and suggests an action plan for the next 12 months.

Other proposals include the introduction of a domestic violence court, which would allow victims access to specialist support and facilities; the increased use of anti-social behaviour orders for troublesome youths; and the introduction of hidden cameras to catch those responsible for crime and vandalism.

Mark Richardson (pictured above right with Chief Inspector Mitchell Fox) from the Thanet Community Safety Partnership (TCSP) said: "Thanet has had plenty of recognition for the innovative work we've been doing to help cut crime and anti-social behaviour. It's already having an impact, with crime in the area down by 16 per cent last year."

Mr Richardson said the TSCP was targetting an "ambitious" seven per cent reduction in overall crime in 2010/11.

Officials are also looking to reduce the number of people concerned about drunkeness or rowdy behaviour in their communities by up to 13 per cent, and to cut the percentage of residents who worry about drug use or drug dealing by a tenth.

Ch Insp Mitchell Fox from Kent Police said the "joined up approach" to fighting crime in Thanet would continue to pay dividends.

He added: "By working closely with the council on a daily basis, we've been able to tackle key issues that matter most to local people. It's a strong partnership that has already paid off with some major successes."

The Community Safety Plan was published last Thursday (April 1). Copies are available from www.thanetcommunitysafety.org.uk or by calling 01843 577737.