Neighbourhood Watch Spring 2026 www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/PCSP making Mid & East Antrim safer
Foreword - Councillor Lauren Gray Chairperson - Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership As the brighter days of spring unfold, bringing warmth and renewal to our communities across Mid & East Antrim, it’s the perfect time to come together and focus on keeping ourselves and our neighbourhoods safe. The longer daylight hours bring a sense of comfort, but staying mindful and looking out for one another remains as important as ever. Simple acts like securing your home, staying alert to anything unusual, and checking in on neighbours - especially those who may need a little extra support —can make a world of difference in creating a safer and more connected community. Over the past few months, the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) has been working tirelessly to support and protect our communities, and I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved for their dedication and hard work. Your efforts have made a real difference, and I am proud of all that has been achieved together. I look forward to seeing many of you out and about in the not-so-distant future as we continue to build on this great work.
The recent severe weather, including #StormChandra, reminded us of how quickly life can be disrupted. With 195.6 mm of rainfall, it was a clear sign of how unpredictable things can be. By taking small, thoughtful steps like keeping essential supplies handy, knowing key contact numbers, and planning to support vulnerable neighbours - we can all be better prepared and more resilient when challenges arise.
Spring is also a time of excitement as many of us start planning holidays and adventures. Sadly, it’s also a time when fraudsters become more active, targeting eager travellers with fake deals and counterfeit accommodation listings. To protect yourself, always book through trusted providers, check reviews from reliable sources, and be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
As we embrace the joys of spring and the Easter season, I want to wish all our PCSP partners and the wonderful people of Mid & East Antrim a safe, healthy, and happy time ahead. May this season bring you moments of peace, joy, and togetherness.
Bank Holiday Camping?
Stop!Think! Secure!
Caravan Security: Keeping Your Home-Away-From-Home Safe
As many of us begin planning trips to the caravan with friends and family, it is important to take a few simple steps to keep your caravan and belongings safe. Whether your caravan is on a permanent site or you’re heading away for a short break, good security habits can help deter intruders and give you peace of mind while you relax. Below are some practical tips to ensure your caravan is as secure as possible Lock Up during your stay. Always ensure all doors, windows, and skylights are properly closed before you leave the caravan - even if you’re only stepping out for a moment. Make sure the caravan is locked and that you take the keys with you. Opportunistic thefts often happen when access is left easy.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight Never leave valuables lying in plain view. Items such as mobile phones, handbags, cash, or tablets can attract unwanted attention. Whenever you leave the caravan, take your valuables with you or store them out of sight in a secure location. Leave Curtains Open It may feel natural to close the curtains when you leave, but doing so can actually increase the risk of break-ins. Open curtains allow potential intruders to see that no valuables have been left inside, reducing temptation and making your caravan a less appealing target. Use an Alarm and Security Markings Investing in a reliable alarm system is one of the best steps you can take to protect your caravan. Even a basic alarm can deter criminals. Additionally, consider marking valuable items - such as laptops, TVs, or gaming devices - with a UV security marker. These markings are invisible to the eye but can be detected by police using UV light, helping to identify and return stolen property. Get to Know Your Neighbours One of the best forms of security is a friendly, watchful community. Introduce yourself to neighbouring caravan owners and look out for each other’s caravans, especially when they are vacant. A supportive environment helps everyone stay safer. By taking these straightforward precautions, you can enjoy your time away with confidence, knowing your caravan and belongings are better protected. Safe travels and happy caravaning!
Car Security: Protecting Your Vehicle and Your Belongings Car thieves are opportunistic - and fast. In many cases, it takes only a few seconds for someone to break into a vehicle or make off with valuable items left inside. Whether you’re parking outside your home, at the shops, or in a busy public car park, taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of car crime. Below are some key steps you can take to keep both your vehicle and your belongings safe. Keep Valuables Out of Sight One of the most common triggers for a break-in is the sight of belongings left inside a vehicle. Items such as mobile phones, electronic devices, cash, sunglasses, tools, coats, or bags - even if they appear empty - can attract unwanted attention. To stay safe:
Always Lock Your Vehicle
• Remove valuables whenever possible, especially high-value items. • If you can’t remove it, secure it by placing it in the boot before you reach your destination. • Remember that even loose change or a charging cable can signal that something valuable might be inside.
It might sound simple, but a surprising number of thefts occur because a vehicle was left unlocked. Even if you're stepping away for just a moment, make sure: • All doors are locked. • Windows are fully closed. • Sunroofs and convertible tops are properly secured. Many thieves check car handles in car parks and residential streets looking for easy targets - don’t make their job any easier. Listen and Look for Locking Signals
Use Your Garage If You Have One
Modern vehicles provide visual or audible cues when they lock - such as a click, a beep, flashing lights, or folding mirrors. Make it a habit to watch and listen for these signals before walking away. If you don’t see or hear them: • Try locking the car again, or • Check the doors manually to ensure the vehicle is properly secured. Sometimes other electronic devices can interfere with the locking signal, so always double-check.
If your vehicle can be stored in a garage, this adds another layer of security and makes it much harder for thieves to gain access. • Always lock your garage door, even when you’re at home. • Consider fitting a garage alarm or security lighting. • If your property has gates, keeping them closed and locked adds further deterrence.
Easter Fun! Grill Safe, Eat Good
BBQ Safety this Easter! Enjoy the Heat without the Harm
Barbecue season is a highlight of the year for many of us. Whether you’re grilling in the back garden, at a caravan site, or while camping, it’s important to remember that barbecues involve fire, hot equipment, and fuel. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure your day stays enjoyable - and accident-free. Safe Setup Before you begin, always choose a flat, stable location for your barbecue. Keep it well away from fences, trees, sheds, awnings, or anything else that could catch fire. Having a bucket of water or a garden hose close by is essential, giving you a quick response option in case of emergencies. Lighting Your Barbecue Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive a barbecue - these are extremely dangerous and can cause sudden flare-ups. Instead, always use firelighters or barbecue starter fuel, and only apply starter fuel to cold coals, never hot ones. During Cooking Keep children, pets, and garden games well away from the cooking area at all times. Barbecues can be easily knocked over, and hot surfaces can cause severe burns. Most importantly, never leave a barbecue unattended. A moment’s distraction is all it takes for a fire to spread. After You're Finished Before you move your barbecue, ensure it is completely cool. Hot coals retain heat for a long time, and ashes should only be disposed of once they are fully cooled to avoid bin fires. If using a portable barbecue, remember that the ground underneath can become extremely hot - make sure it has cooled before packing away to prevent burns or scorch damage. And remember: never use a barbecue indoors. Even a cooling barbecue gives off harmful fumes. Alcohol and barbecues can be a risky combination drinking reduces awareness and increases the likelihood of accidents, so always take extra care. Additional tips for gas barbecues: • Make sure your barbecue is in good working order. • Make sure the gas tap is turned off before changing the cylinder and always disconnect the cylinder in open air When you have finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before you turn off the barbecue controls; this ensures any gas in the pipework will be exhausted. For additional information CLICK HERE
Ultimate Beef Burger BBQ Recipe INGREDIENTS • • • • • •
500g steak mince red onion 1/2 tsp celery salt A splash of Worchester sauce chilli flakes 4 brioche burger buns
Sliced to serve • 8 emmental • gherkins • frilly lettuce Sweet and Sour Onions • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar • 2 tsp golden caster sugar • red onion Method Step 1 Mix the burger sauce ingredients together. If you have time, leave the sauce ingredients for a few hours or even make it the day before. Step 2 To make the sweet and sour onions, mix the vinegar and sugar in a bowl and toss the sliced onions in it. Stir now and again while you make the burgers. Step 3 Put the mince in a bowl. Grate the onion on the course side of a box grater.The tougher outer layers will refuse to grate, so just discard these. You just want the grated purée. Add the grated onion to the mince bowl along with a splash of Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, and chilli flakes. Mix everything with your hands and divide into 8 equal portions. Step 4 Flatten each portion into a very thin patty.They will spring back in the pan so make them much thinner than you think you should. Step 5 Heat a non-stick frying pan on a high heat.Turn the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Fry the patties for 2 minutes each side.You won’t be able to get all 8 in one pan, so as you finish, transfer them to a baking tray.When you have 8, top each with a square of cheese and put in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Step 6 Put some sauce on each bun base. Add lettuce and a couple of slices of tomato. Stack up 2 patties with cheese, then add sauce, the onions and gherkins. Add more sauce, the bun tops and skewer each to hold it together.
Northern DRUG & ALCOHOL
COORDINATION TEAMS - CONNECTIONS SERVICES
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided in this directory at time of print, we do not accept any responsibility or liability for any errors. It is recommended that you always check directly with providers that their service or organisation meets your requirements. Where any specific organisation or service is mentioned by name or otherwise this does not necessarily constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by NIDACTs or PHA of that organisation or service.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL SUPPORT SERVICES NORTHERN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE TRUST AREA This publication can also be downloaded from www.drugsandalcoholni.info
SERVICES FOR ADULTS
YOUNG PEOPLE/FAMILY
SPECIFIC GROUPS
Drug and Alcohol Harm Reduction Service
Ballymena Youth Engagement Service (YES)
Needle and Syringe Exchange Sites
Aimed at those who misuse alcohol and/or drugs at harmful levels and/or in harmful ways but who are unable to commit to formal treatment (including chronic drinkers & injecting drug users).
Offering a youth friendly, holistic health and wellbeing service where young people, aged 11-25, have opportunities to socialise and to get advice and support on a range of issues.
Please note NSP Direct is now available across Northern Ireland and can be accessed using any postcode. This is an independent, free, confidential service which discreetly delivers injecting equipment directly to your door. Access to this is at:
Open Access/Self Referrals Accepted Extern
Open Access Start 360
www.exchangesupplies.org/nspdirect
028 2568 9356
Boots
028 2565 4012
38 Main Street Larne, BT40 1SS 028 2827 4701
bbeycentre A Newtownabbey 028 9036 5910 igh Street, Antrim H 028 9446 2224
Adult Substance Misuse (Step 2) Service
Carrickfergus Youth Engagement Service (YES)
One to one therapeutic treatment and support service for alcohol and/or drug misuse. Family members can also get advice and support - regardless of whether their significant other is seeking help.
Providing a youth friendly, holistic health and wellbeing service where young people, aged 11-25, have opportunities to socialise and to get advice and support on a range of issues.
Ballymena Health Centre 028 2564 1989
Open Access Carrickfergus YMCA
ueen Street Q Harryville, Ballymena 028 2564 5994
Links Counselling 028 3834 2825 info@linkscounselling.com www.linkscounselling.com/
Statutory Addiction Service Provided by a range of specialist teams within community and hospital settings.
GP/Health Professional Referrals NHSCT 028 2531 7162 Residential treatment is accessible through the statutory addiction service and is provided by a number of agencies including those listed below.
Addiction Service Referrals Carrick 1 028 9441 3369
Carlisle House 028 9032 8303
Northlands 028 7131 3232
karen.graham@carrickymca.org 028 9335 5890
Targeted Lifeskills Service Groupwork programmes for young people, aged 11-25, focussed on lifeskills and harm reduction.
Targeted at At-Risk/Vulnerable Groups ASCERT & Start 360 0800 254 5123
For young people aged 11-25 who have been impacted by parental substance use and mental health problems.
Open Access/Self Referrals Accepted ASCERT www.stepstocope.co.uk
DAISY One to one and group therapeutic treatment and support service for children and young people aged 11-25. Family members can also get advice and support - regardless of whether their significant other is seeking help.
Open Access/Self Referrals Accepted ASCERT & Start 360 0800 254 5123
Voices Therapeutic treatment and support for families and children affected by parental alcohol and/or drug misuse.
Social Services/Addiction Services Referrals Start 360 028 2568 9356 start360.org/how-can-we-help-you/voicesnorth
For more detailed information on services available in your HSCT area visit: www.drugsandalcoholni.info
James Street, Cookstown 028 8676 6176
NHSCT Community Addiction Service 105a Railway Street, Ballymena 028 2531 7162 Extern Drug and Alcohol Harm Reduction Service also offer needle and syringe services.
Group Support Call or go online to find a meeting near you:
Steps to Cope/ Hidden Harm
0800 2545123 stc@ascert.biz
Church St, Coleraine 028 7035 6666
DAMHS (Drug and Alcohol Mental Health Service) Providing a range of therapeutic support services for young people aged under 18 with significant mental health and substance misuse difficulties.
GP/CAMHS Referrals NHSCT 028 9442 4600
Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Step Programme/Group Meetings 028 9035 1222
www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie
AlAnon Group Support for Family Members 028 9068 2368
www.al-anonuk.org.uk
Alateen Group Support for Teenagers 028 9068 2368
www.al-anonuk.org.uk/alateen
Narcotics Anonymous 12 Step Programme/Group Meetings 0300 365 1010 (3pm - 10pm) www.na-northernireland.org
Workforce Development Training Programmes A range of drug and alcohol training courses for those working with adults, children and young people.
ASCERT 0800 254 5123 training@ascert.biz training.ascert.biz
Community/Stakeholder Support Northern Drug & Alcohol Coordination Team/ Connections Service (NDACT Connections) The DACT Connections Service provides information, advice, signposting and awareness raising initiatives to a range of community and stakeholder partners. 028 2568 9356 (Start 360) www.drugsandalcoholni.info Kathleen.grego@start360.org
Regional Service Users Network Empowering the voice of people with lived experience of substance use
ASCERT 0800 254 5123
For further information on mental health and emotional wellbeing services visit: www.mindingyourhead.info/
In Crisis? Call Date of publication: 2025
info@ascert.biz
FREE 24/7 HELPLINE
www.ascert.biz
0808 808 8000
Flooding Happens Fast Be Ready Before It Begins.
Preparing for Flooding: Practical Steps to Protect Your Home and Community
Preparing for Flooding: Practical Steps to Protect Your Home and Community With changing weather patterns and increasingly heavy rainfall, many communities are taking proactive steps to prepare for potential flooding. A little planning now can make a significant difference when severe weather arrives. Here are some simple, effective ways to stay ready and keep your home and family safe.
Know Your Risk Start by understanding whether your home is in an area prone to flooding. Local councils, community groups, and environmental agencies often provide flood-risk maps and alerts. Signing up for local warning systems ensures you receive timely updates when heavy rain or rising water levels are expected. Create a Household Flood Plan A clear plan helps everyone stay calm and act quickly. Consider: • Where you will move valuables and important documents • How you will protect pets • Who you will contact if flooding occurs • A safe route out of your home if evacuation becomes necessary • Keep emergency phone numbers somewhere easy to find. Prepare an Emergency Kit Having essentials ready can make a stressful situation more manageable. A basic kit might include: • A torch and spare batteries • Bottled water and non-perishable food • Warm clothing and blankets • A first-aid kit • Copies of important documents • Any necessary medication Store your kit somewhere accessible and check it regularly.
Preparing for Flooding: Practical Steps to Protect Your Home and Community Protect Your Property Simple measures can help reduce damage: • Clear gutters, drains, and outdoor channels to allow water to flow freely • Move valuable items and electrical equipment to higher shelves • Consider using sandbags or flood barriers if your area is at high risk • Keep outdoor furniture secure so it doesn’t become a hazard in fast-moving water • If you have a vehicle, park it on higher ground when heavy rain is forecast. Stay Informed During Severe Weather Listen to local updates and follow guidance from emergency services. Avoid walking or driving through floodwater - just a small depth of moving water can be dangerous. If you are asked to evacuate, do so promptly and safely. Support Your Community Flood preparation is stronger when communities work together. Check in on neighbours, especially older residents or those with mobility challenges. Community groups can also help share information, coordinate volunteers, and provide support during and after severe weather. As we continue to face unpredictable weather and the challenges it brings, the MEA Scheme of Emergency Financial Assistance remains an essential safety net for households across our community. Householders affected by flooding, may be eligible to receive a £1000 inconvenience payment, subject to meeting the criteria of the Department for Communities Scheme of Emergency Financial Assistance. While no one ever wants to find themselves dealing with the aftermath of flooding or severe damage, it’is reassuring to know that support is available when it’s needed most. Please contact Environmental Health within 7 days of the incident on T: 028 2563 3394028 2563 3394 For more information please click here
Peelers And Pals
Braid Community Development
Peelers And Pals
Braid Community Development Group is working to strengthen its local community through connection, wellbeing, and shared purpose. Since early New Year, it has led a community youth project entitled Peelers and Pal’s, which was developed in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and Ballymena Neighbourhood Local Policing Team. The aim of the programme has been to improve relations through building trust, creating a mutual understanding, and increasing positive interactions. This programme has sought to improve communication, address negativity and help local communities get to know their local neighbourhood team better.
Braid Community Development are an active community group, based in Community House, Drumtara (owned by NIHE). They work on the ground to provide support, events and opportunities for their local community and residents of the Ballee area and further afield. Through this work, a need was identified to create positive relationships between police and young people, hence the development of Peelers and Pals - a programme that would work to build trust from an early age and help young people understand the police’s role in protecting people in the community. Designed to build trust, confidence, and positive relationships between young people and local police officers, Peelers and Pals has been a great example of working towards improving confidence in policing. The heart behind Peelers and Pals, has been designed to bring officers and young people together through fun, learning, and genuine connection. Rather than meeting police only in moments of crisis, Peelers and Pals has given these young people a chance to see officers as approachable, supportive, and human. It has been a simple idea with a powerful impact. A key part of that impact comes from the themed activity nights woven into the programme. These special evenings have given the young people and officers a chance to interact in relaxed, enjoyable settings that naturally encourage teamwork and conversation.
One highlight has been the PSNI Gaming Bus night, where a fully kitted-out gaming van rolled into the community and competition was high! Other theme nights included Pizza making, bringing everyone together around good food and easy conversation. Local Artist, Carly Wright joined the Peelers and Pals also, bringing her artistic talent to the young people of Ballee; encouraging their creative flair and building their confidence as they painted and created alongside one another. The informal setting of Peelers and Pals has helped break down barriers, making it easier for young people to chat and ask questions. Speaking about the local Neighbourhood Officers and how the programme was progressing each week, a representative for Braid Community Development said “We had a great night getting to enjoy the company of our community police officers. They are a complete asset to our community, and we are very grateful for the commitment they have for the kids in the area – this is what Peelers and Pals is all about – building relationships between the kids and the community police and I must say these local officers have definitely made a big impact on these kids.” For the officers, Peelers and Pals has been equally rewarding and they acknowledge the value of connecting with the young people outside formal duties; getting to know them as individuals, and showing that police officers are neighbours, parents, and community members too. These moments of connection help foster mutual respect, build confidence in policing and strengthen the sense of partnership that underpins safe, thriving communities.
Have you been the Victim or Witness to a crime or incident? If you have information about a crime or suspicious activity please either call PSNI on 101 or report online. If someone is in danger or you need urgent support call 999 immediately
You can also use the 999 British Sign Language (BSL) app or website to make a call to 999. It will go to the British BSL interpreter first, who will appear on the screen. The BSL interpreter will then call 999 operator and will rely the conversation. You must only call the service if you have a real emergency. If you have questions about how the service works please email info@999bsl.co.uk or visit the website at www.999bsl.co.uk
Smart Farming, Safe Farming
Rural Crime and Safety Skills for today’s Young Farmers
For generations, the Glarryford Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) has been a vibrant hub for rural youth - offering opportunities to learn new skills, build friendships, and take an active role in shaping their community. With a proud history rooted in agriculture, the club provides a supportive space where young people can develop leadership, confidence, and practical knowledge that benefits both themselves and the wider rural area.
Alongside its social activities, Glarryford YFC is deeply committed to promoting safety, wellbeing, and responsible farming practices among the next generation. This focus was reflected in the club’s recent Farm Safety Focus Night, an event designed to equip members with essential guidance for staying safe in one of Northern Ireland’s most demanding industries. Glarryford Young Farmers’ Club recently held a highly informative Farm Safety Focus Night, stating "We were delighted to welcome PSNI Crime Prevention Officer Paul Black.
The evening highlighted the club’s commitment to supporting young people in agriculture and promoting safer working practices across the community. PSNI delivered an engaging session on rural crime, machinery theft, and personal safety, offering practical advice on how young farmers can protect themselves, their families, and their property. Officers highlighted the importance of vigilance, secure equipment, and reporting suspicious activity promptly.
Community engagement event like this work to improve relationships between Glarryford YFC and local policing teams, as well as improve confidence in policing. By working together, they are helping to build a safer, more informed generation of young farmers.
Glarryford YFC extended its thanks to the PSNI and Mid and East Antrim PCSP for their support and for delivering such a valuable and engaging session.
Redeeming Our Communities
Project Can Do!
Redeeming Our Communities Northern Ireland (ROC NI) is a community-focused charity working to build safer, stronger, and more connected neighbourhoods. By bringing together residents, community groups, churches, statutory agencies, and emergency services, ROC encourages partnership working and creates practical initiatives that respond to local needs. Their goal is simple: empower people of goodwill to make their communities kinder, safer, and more resilient. Across Northern Ireland, ROC NI supports a wide range of programmes including youth engagement, wellbeing sessions, mentoring support, and community safety events. The organisation continues to play a key role in helping residents build confidence, reduce isolation, and strengthen the ties that make neighbourhoods thrive. Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is delighted to take part in ROC Northern Ireland’s Community Safety Project – Can Do! This practical and engaging programme helps residents build confidence, strengthen awareness, and develop the everyday skills they need to stay safe. The Can Do! sessions explore a range of essential community safety themes, including: • Keeping safe in your community • Keeping your home safe • Keeping you and your family safe online Participants come together to share experiences, learn from one another, and discuss the tools and strategies that help keep households and neighbourhoods safe. Each session creates a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing and gaining new knowledge. Mid and East Antrim PCSP is proud to support programmes like Can Do!, which promote collaboration, build resilience, and equip residents with practical safety skills. Community safety is strongest when people feel informed, connected, and confident - and Can Do! continues to reflect that spirit through its thoughtful, partnership-based approach. Upcoming Can Do! Events in Larne We are excited to highlight two upcoming Community Safety Project – Can Do! sessions taking place in Larne on: • 4 March 2026 • 18 March 2026 These events offer residents the opportunity to get involved, learn new safety skills, and build positive connections within the community.
Ballykeel Community Safety Fun Day
Community Safety Fun Day
A vibrant celebration of community fun took place recently when the newly formed group Ballykeel 1 Community First, teamed up with Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), and the Ballymena Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) to host a well-attended community fun day in Ballykeel Community Centre where the local community turned out in huge numbers. The event brought residents of all ages together for an afternoon that balanced family friendly entertainment with practical advice on safety, wellbeing and crime prevention. A range of partner agencies were on hand to engage with the public, including Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Turning Point NI, Northern Health and Social Care Trust, Mid and East Antrim Agewell Partnership, Sure Start, Impact Network, ASCERT and the Northern Connections Team alongside PCSP. Ballymena PSNI Neighbourhood Policing Team attended also with their local Crime Prevention Officer, offering tailored crime prevention advice and reassurance to local resident’s. Ballymena NPT also brought their PSNI Gaming Bus - a popular attraction for young people and families alike - which as ever, proved to be a big hit on the day! Chair of Mid and East Antrim PCSP Cllr Lauren Gray said after the event. “Thank you to our many partners and the people of Ballykeel who came out to support this important Community Safety Fun Day event. A huge thanks also to Ballykeel 1 Community First and our local PSNI Neighbourhood Policing Team who partnered with PCSP to host this important community safety event. PCSP is committed to creating opportunities to engage locally around community safety issues, and this event created a great opportunity for our partner agencies to come alongside this community and provide important information on how to keep safe.” Ballymena NPT Inspector Jock McToal, said: “Ballymena NPT was delighted to attend the Ballykeel Community Safety Family Fun Day on Thursday, 12 February 2026. It was a great opportunity to meet members of the community and particularly pleasing to see so many young people in attendance, who enjoyed the Gaming Bus in particular. Police look forward to continuing to work alongside the Community in Ballykeel following this event, which was well attended and enjoyed by all. For younger attendees, there was no shortage of entertainment. A pop-up play area, petting farm and face painters ensured children were kept busy throughout the day, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged families to stay, chat and connect. Ballykeel 1 Community First, although newly established, made its intentions clear. The group is focused on strengthening community cohesion across all age groups and plans to deliver a programme of inclusive events designed to bring neighbours together and foster a strong sense of belonging.” Chair Person of Ballykeel 1 Community First Karen Mark, and Treasurer Anne Neeson wanted to pass this message to the community: “We had a great turnout for our first event and we hope the kids had a great day. It was lovely to see the support for the community and we are looking forward to seeing you all again very soon at our next event.” Both ladies and their team of volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the afternoon to entertain and feed the crowd with tea, coffee and traybakes! A successful event and a great afternoon had by all! If you are interested to know more about the work of Mid and East Antrim PCSP email us at pcsp@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/midandeastantrimpcsp
Your PCSP Members 10 Elected Members Cllr Lauren Gray (Chair) Cllr Gregg McKeen Cllr Roy Beggs Cllr Anna Henry Cllr Maeve Donnelly Cllr Marc Collins Cllr Ian Friary Cllr Tyler Hoey Cllr Angela Smyth Cllr Brian Thompson
09 Independent Members Elizabeth Maxwell (Vice Chair) Noel Rogan QPM Eugene Reid Lexie Scott Naomi Coupland Wendy Kerr Evelyn Hughes Eliza Martin Brenda Leslie
07 Statutory Partners Northern Ireland Housing Executive Police Service of Northern Ireland Probation Board Youth Justice Agency Northern Health & Social Care Trust Education Authority Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service
Mid and East Antrim PSNI Contact Details Ballymena
In an Emergency call: 999 PSNI
LNPT Inspector McToal 07812 480855
Non-emergency call: 101
LNPT Sergeant Cowan 07917 3368 825
Victim Support 028 2563 0784
Larne & Carrick
Crime stoppers 0800 555 111
LNPT Inspector Ash 07557 261796 LNPT Sergeant Cowan 07764 638412 LNPT Sergeant Mcllroy 07787 224732 Contact our PCSP staff by phone, email or call into the office: 80 Galgorm Road Ballymena County Antrim BT42 1AB pcsp@midandeastantr www.psni.police.uk/about-us/ local-policing/mid-and-eastantrim
24 hour Domestic & Sexual Violence helpline 0808 802 1414 ABCLN Women’s Aid 02825632136 Crime Prevention Officer Paul Black 0750 003 6996 or Ext 86008 or phone 101 This newsletter is supported by the Northern Ireland Policing Board and Department of Justice, with thanks to Crimestoppers and Statutory Partners for providing relevant information.