Keeping Thanet safe, active, and fair

It’s been a busy few weeks for our Community Safety and Enforcement teams. From ensuring accessible parking stays fair, to safely removing potential weapons from our streets, officers have been working hard alongside Kent Police to keep Thanet safe and welcoming for everyone.

In May, officers joined forces with Kent Police to empty the district’s 17 amnesty bins, collecting 448 knives in total. We encourage everyone to use the bins to safely dispose of unwanted knives and sharp implements.

Civil Enforcement Officers also teamed up with Kent Police for a day of action to tackle the misuse of Blue Badges. Of the 30 badges checked, 15 were being used incorrectly. Officers issued 15 penalty charge notices and seized two badges. Police officers also completed two traffic offence reports. Keeping these accessible parking spaces available for people who genuinely need them is vital.

Looking to the future, we’re also taking steps to support our young people. The recently launched Margate Community Alcohol Partnership will tackle underage drinking and the antisocial behaviour that often comes with it.

The partnership brings together Thanet District Council, Kent County Council, Kent Police, local retailers and schools. It focuses on education and prevention, not just punishing bad behaviour. We work directly with local shops to stop them selling alcohol to under-18s, teach young people about the real risks of alcohol, and provide fun, alcohol-free activities for young people. You can find out more on Kent County Council’s website.

Save the date: Wednesday 29 July. The Community team is hosting a family day  at the Memorial Recreation Ground in Broadstairs, with a focus on safety and fun!

• Free sports and wellness taster sessions
• Safety demonstrations from RNLI, Kent Police, and Kent Fire and Rescue Service

You can find out more about the Community team’s ongoing projects on the website.