DORSET Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Martyn Underhill and his engagement team spent a day on Portland meeting residents to hear their views on policing, crime and community safety in the area.

Representatives from a variety of community groups were asked for their views about living on Portland.

Mr Underhill said he found there are a small number of unique social, economical and environmental issues when he attended a community workshop run by Island Community Action (ICA).

The natural environment and strong sense of community were positive, he said, but a number of environmental concerns including areas that had become neglected were highlighted.

Also raised was dog fouling and drugs on the island and the social isolation of some people – especially the elderly, Mr Underhill also visited the Man Shed, a project established by volunteers that encourages men of all ages to use their skills to help upcycle furniture that can then be given to disadvantaged families or sold to raise funds.

The men can also undertake their own projects if they wish.

The project which was an idea that originated in Australia and helps men combat loneliness gives men a sense of purpose and enables them to continue to use their skills to help others. Colin Stott, who runs the project said: “Women socialise over coffee, men socialise over their shoulder working together.”

Speaking about the day, Martyn Underhill, Dorset PCC said: “In my role as Police and Crime Commissioner, it is vital I visit communities across Dorset to meet with residents and discuss any issues they may have about staying safe in their local area.

“Visits to some of the organisations that work so hard to make Dorset such a safe and inclusive place to live are also a great way of understanding the different needs of our residents.”

Mr Underhill and the engagement team also spent time speaking with residents at Tesco in Easton on Portland to understand what key areas of policing they would prioritise in times of austerity.

Community days and surgery sessions are held across Dorset for people who wish to discuss particular issues with the PCC.

The Office of the PCC hosts around 25 public forums and surgeries per year across Dorset. Surgeries are divided into 20-minute appointments. You may bring along a friend or family member to support you. Martyn will be there along with a caseworker.

Surgery dates are organised around the county on different days. Contact the office in advance to book a time with the Commissioner (telephone 01305 or 01202 229084).

Visit dorset.ppc.police.uk