Weeks of Action
Frequently Asked Questions
Background
Q: Why are Weeks of Action taking place?
A: "Weeks of Action" have recently developed a higher profile because of the concerted effort by the Home Office to support partnerships in delivering the current PSA1 target- to reduce crime by 15% and by more in high crime areas (HCAs). 44 areas have been identified as being of highest priority to delivery due to the potential impact of their performance on PSA1. During initial discussions about how partnerships might be supported to make the greatest impact, the significant potential of effective Weeks of Action was identified. They can have a positive impact in any partnership area, not just high crime or priority areas.
Q: What are Weeks of Action?
A: "Weeks of Action" is a term used to describe specific periods of intensive and highly co-ordinated partnership action, usually focused on discrete high crime and high deprivation areas, such as a ward, neighbourhood or cluster of streets. They bring together a broad range of partners, involve local communities and local media and to reduce crime and disorder and increase reassurance in some of the most marginalised communities.
Weeks of Action are not a silver bullet for reducing crime or building more effective partnerships and must be part of an integrated partnership strategy and Action Plan if they are to achieve maximum impact.
Weeks of Action are not expensive - they use core mainstream services and resources in a more focused way.
Weeks of Action Guidance and Best Practice
Q: Where can I get guidance on planning and carrying out Weeks of Action?
A: The latest Guidance for Weeks of Action was published in August 2008. The guidance includes the principles and practicalities of Weeks of Action, along with an evaluation of the scheme. The report also includes guidance on how the impact of a Week of Action can be sustained.
The 2007 Guidance for Weeks of Action was issued by email to the HORDDs on 22 March. Version 2 of the Guidance was issued on 20 April. The Guidance includes key tips for Weeks of Action and a Weeks of Action Checklist along with further guidance for all areas of planning, disseminating and evaluating Weeks of Action.
Readers are invited to comment on this guidance and contribute their own experience for inclusion in future versions. Versions 1 and 2 of the Guidance largely draws on the experience of Nottingham CDP; it is intended that future versions will draw increasingly on input from partnerships across England and Wales.
If you would like a copy of the guidance or have any feedback or comments please send an email to ali.hewison@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Q: Where can I get a Weeks of Action Checklist?
A: A checklist for carrying out Weeks of Action is included in the Annex of the Priority 44 Weeks of Action Guidance . The most recent version of the Guidance was sent out on 20 April to all the HORDDs, if you require another copy, please email ali.hewison@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Further information on Weeks of Action
Q: Where can I find out when Weeks of Action and related events are taking place?
A: The Calendar of Events is sent out on a weekly basis and also forms Worksheet 3 of the Action Plan. The Calendar of Events holds details of where and when Weeks of Action and related events (e.g. Conferences and Seminars) are taking place. Please ensure that the information in your area is included in this. Anything that you would like to see included in the Calendar of Events please email ali.hewison@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Q: Where can I receive more information about Weeks of Action and related events?
A: The Priority 44 Weekly Newsletter is sent out on a Weekly basis. Broadly it covers the following topics:
- News from the Centre
- Action required by you
- Key dates
- New Information and resources
- Progress Report and deadlines for updates
If there is anything else that you would like to see included in the newsletter or would like to be included on the distribution list, please email ali.hewison@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Q: Where can I get more information on tackling certain crimes?
A: The Crime Reduction website has information and toolkits on how to tackle specific crimes, see: www.crimereduction.gov.uk
The Priority 44 Weekly Newsletter also provides updates on newly available information and resources available. If you would like to be added to the distribution list please contact ali.hewison@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
Last update: Thursday, September 04, 2008