Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling street drinking and anti-social behaviour in Trowbridge through a coordinated, community-first approach that combines enforcement with vital support services for those living with addictions.
Recent multi-agency efforts have seen the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Wiltshire Police, Trowbridge Town Council, and Wiltshire Council work together to address persistent concerns raised by residents and businesses in the town centre.
This includes support from commissioned services such as Connect, which is jointly funded by the OPCC and Wiltshire Council to provide targeted outreach and support. The OPCC is invests a total of £108,110 into the service each financial year.
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Listening to the issues raised by our communities and responding to their concerns is the primary function of my office.
“Tackling street drinking is not just about enforcement—it’s about understanding the root causes and working with partners and commissioning specialist services to deliver long-term solutions. That’s why services like Connect are so vital.”
The OPCC’s support for the Safer Streets Summer campaign has helped deliver enhanced CCTV coverage and community engagement initiatives in Swindon. Alongside this, increased hotspot patrols—funded through a separate initiative running until the end of March—are providing a visible police presence in key areas.
Together with the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), these measures are giving officers greater powers to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve public safety.
The Connect Wiltshire Substance Use Service, commissioned by the OPCC and delivered by Turning Point, also plays a crucial role in helping individuals address the underlying issues behind street-based behaviours.
Based in Rothermere House, Trowbridge, Connect offers free, confidential support for anyone concerned about their own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use.
During recent community engagement events, outreach workers from Connect were on hand to speak directly with individuals affected by street drinking, offering immediate advice and pathways into support. Joint patrols with Wiltshire Council’s ASB and Rough Sleeper teams have helped build rapport with vulnerable individuals, enabling tailored recovery plans and access to secure accommodation.
This is an ongoing initiative with partners regularly meeting to discuss plans and actions to continue support provisions throughout the summer and into the winter months.
Alex Cattelona, Criminal Justice and Engagement & Prevention Manager at Connect, said: "Working alongside local PCSOs and Wiltshire Council’s ASB and Rough Sleeper teams on joint outreach patrols in Trowbridge has had a real impact on vulnerable substance users.
“We support individuals who are alcohol or drug dependent by developing personalised recovery plans and helping them access secure accommodation—giving them the stability they need to make lasting, positive changes."
Trowbridge Neighbourhood Inspector Ho Tsang added: “Thanks to the multi-agency interventions now in place, we’ve seen a reduction in reports of street drinking and associated anti-social behaviour in Trowbridge.
“We understand the serious impact ASB can have on the local community, which is why we continue to monitor the situation closely and carry out regular patrols in hotspot areas. Our focus remains on deterring anti-social behaviour while ensuring vulnerable individuals receive the support they need."
