Police van aims to strengthen community connections in St Ives

In their aim to bring police services to the doorsteps of local communities in St Ives, the neighbourhood police team will continue to deploy its police engagement van, helping forge positive working relationships with local people and businesses.

The engagement van acts as a mobile police station, allowing passers-by to easily report crime, give statements, receive crime prevention advice or to simply meet their local officers.

It was deployed for the first time last week outside a local school in the town and on the Wharf, as well as at Hayle retail park. Feedback from the community was positive with one resident stating how accessible it was.

Police Community Support Officer Terry Webb said: “Whilst we carry out our regular foot patrols in neighbourhoods, this van is another way for us to engage with our communities. 

“It acts as welcoming base for people to come up and speak with us; it’s a valuable opportunity to chat directly with the public, offer advice and listen to any concerns people have without the need for them to pick up the phone or visit a police enquiry office.

“The value of having an in-person conversation with someone cannot be underestimated.”

PCSO Webb added: “Being visible like this goes a long way in showing people that our officers are approachable, that we want to hear from you, and that we want to do the best for our communities.”

The neighbourhood police team will be deploying the van across various locations in 2026.

Upcoming dates will be shared on the local Facebook page and/or on the Devon & Cornwall Police website: St Ives Town | Your area | Devon and Cornwall Police | Devon & Cornwall Police

Alternatively, you can sign up to Devon & Cornwall Community Messaging to stay up to date with the latest information directly from police teams in your area: Home Page - Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging

If you have any information about illegal activity happening in your local area, please report it to Devon & Cornwall Police. To do this, please visit our website or call 101. In an emergency call 999.

Information can also be passed 100% anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via their website.