Christian project's pod makes Norwich safer
 A Christian project has recently been given a Safer Neighbourhood Pod to help engage with the local community and keep the streets in East Norwich safe.
Over the past few months ENYP (East Norwich Youth Project) has been working together with a number of partners including local police teams in a ground level venture in the community called 'Streetwise'.
Project Director Danny Doran-Smith said “Streetwise has been working in this community for the last few months; the Pod provides a safe environment, to help engage with the local community, and offer support or advice about any issues which may be affecting them.”
The Pod has been used on a Friday evening and Saturday morning for people living on the Heartsease estate. Since the project began there have been a number of key successes within the community such as the reporting of noise complaints which have since ceased.
 A knife was recovered in an area where children played and this taken by the police for their records and evidence. A member of the public said “It’s great to see the Pod being used. Streetwise’s presence is very welcome”.
Streetwise provides a positive presence by supporting. the needs of the community. Individuals or families who identify particular needs are visited by volunteers.
Streetwise provides opportunities for cohesion, looks for ways to intervene to protect and reduce harm to vulnerable people, provides information to the council or police where action is required, and seeks feedback from communities.
Chief Inspector Lisa Hooper said “Many issues which affect our communities are about quality of life, Streetwise volunteers will do their bit to help, by being a friendly face, a listening ear and a responsible citizen. There is already a lot of really good support available locally, on all kinds of issues, but many people just don’t know where to start. Streetwise is a really exciting way of encouraging communities to work together.
 Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, said: “The ENYP’s activities are always impressive and I’m confident the new Streetwise project will be a success in building on the many exciting things already going on in the area. I hear a lot about people’s hopes and worries in east Norwich, and with the best will in the world the police and the council can’t solve everything. Helping people regain a part in their own community through this venture will be a great new focus.”
Streetwise is reliant on volunteers in the local community who are keen to patrol the area and support vulnerable members of the community. All volunteers are trained to ensure they are clear on what to look for and how they can ensure the best outcome for the community. If you are interested in finding out more please email streetwise@enyp.org.uk or visit the ENYP website – www.enyp.org.uk
 Pictured above: Chloe Smith MP and Ellie Payne on a patrol; Ellie Payne and John Payne at the Heartsease
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