PROTECTING vulnerable people is one of the key new focuses of Ryedale police.

The North Yorkshire force is working towards a community approach to policing as officers move from traditional roles to supporting people at risk of becoming victims of crime.

Inspector Andy Everitt said these included people suffering domestic violence, people with mental health issues and young women putting themselves in vulnerable positions during evenings out.

“Crime reduction is in place now in a positive way, therefore the nature of policing is changing for us,” he said.

“It is increasingly about the more vulnerable sections of our society, including those at risk of domestic abuse, child sexual exploitation, and legal highs the list is endless.

“Vulnerability is taking more prevalence as we reduce crime in its traditional form and crucially focus our efforts on supporting vulnerable people.”

Insp Everitt said police would be working with licensees and door staff at pubs across Ryedale.

“There is a higher issue of vulnerability for people in the night-time economy related to incidents that may occur in or outside licensed premises and it is vital that staff are aware of how they can help prevent incidents occurring,” he said.

“Excess drink raises a number of safety issues including vulnerable females who are intoxicated in the presence of predatory males, as well as fights and public order offences.”

Insp Everitt said there had been a number of calls recently from women who thought they had been raped after waking up in bed with a stranger.

“We want to get the message over that when people see something that they think is not quite right, such as a girl by herself or who appears to be in an uncomfortable situation, that they take control and either contact us or the Street Angels who will intervene,” he said.

“Our aim is for a multi-agency and community approach to encourage everyone to be responsive and help prevent a crime or incident taking place.”

Insp Everitt said they were also seeing more victims of domestic violence coming forward thanks to the support system in place.

“Our approach now is that when we do go into people’s homes our officers can identify possible issues and refer them to support agencies,” he said.

“Policing is getting smarter and more sensitive, the demand is still there, but it has changed in emphasis. We will always face crime but there is a change in the way we deliver police services.

“We are very fortunate here in Ryedale to have the support of our local community and that is something I cherish.”