A BLITZ on drugs has boosted safety in an Oxford community, but police say forging better relationships with ‘reticent’ residents is key to their war on crime.

The neighbourhood police team covering Rose Hill, Iffley and Littlemore have proudly spoken of their ‘unprecedented’ crackdown on drug crime in the area.

Officers have also tackled antisocial behaviour and begging, but stressed a need to build public confidence and ensure residents feel able to report suspicions.

Speaking at a public meeting at Rose Hill Community Centre on Tuesday night, Sergeant Steven Why said: “We have started breaking down those barriers. It’s hard work and it takes both sides.

“We do care and we are a part of the community.”

He said a key issue was vulnerable people’s homes being infiltrated by drug dealers.

Sgt Why added: “We are now up to 11 warrants [executed] in the last seven to eight months, which is unprecedented.

“Some have been very successful in drugs being found and arrests being made.”

He said the team has seen some street dealing, as is expected when drug dens are raided, but added: “Unfortunately the reality is that drugs is a way of life for a lot of people, their only focus.

“We don’t just walk away, we are still helping them.

“It’s very much long-term problem solving.”

Officers spoke to residents at a community action forum, and invited people to be part of a working group to help police solve crime.

In Rose Hill, Littlemore and Iffley it will replace the previous neighbourhood action group, which Sgt Why said was unsuccessful because membership was not diverse.

He added: “This [the forum] has got to work.

“Hopefully we will get a broader idea of what’s going on in the community.”

Terry Kirkby, chairman of Rose Hill Tenants and Residents Association, said at the meeting: “I think people are reticent to tell you what their problems are. If we can break down that reticence, you can get a bit further.”

Sargeant Kate Parker-Towle said the team had better visibility thanks to the ‘lovely community centre’ in which they are based, having moved in last year from their previous office in The Oval.

She pushed the importance of confidentiality between officers and sources, but encouraged anyone reluctant to approach to police to call Crimestoppers anonymously.

The neighbourhood team has also trialled a ‘have your say’ postbox, which will move around spots such as shops and schools for residents to post concerns or comments.

Addressing other areas of concern, Sgt Why said officers had imposed two banning orders on ‘young lads’ for antisocial behaviour outside the community centre.

He said: “We are taking it very seriously to nip it in the bud and not allow it to fester.”

Anyone interested in joining the working group can visit officers at the community centre or email OxfordSouthEastNHPT@thamesvalleypolice.pnn.police.uk.