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I wanted to provide you an update regarding robbery, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. On Monday 12 April, PC Pitt had the pleasure of visiting the 21st Purley and District Scout Group during their weekly meeting.
PC Pitt spent the evening with 20 local young people, alongside their dedicated scout leaders, taking part in an interactive and engaging session focused on personal safety. The Scouts participated enthusiastically in discussions about how to stay safe while out and about, where they can seek help if they ever feel unsafe, and who they can turn to for support.
An important part of the session explored the idea that everyone should feel able to walk around their community safely. While practical steps can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming a target, it was clearly reinforced that the responsibility for a robbery or crime always lies with the offender.
The session included a range of interactive activities and games, helping to reinforce key safety messages in a fun and accessible way. The evening concluded with a lively question-and-answer session, where the Scouts had the opportunity to ask PC Pitt about policing and community safety more generally.
The visit has been very positively received, with feedback shared by parents via the group’s WhatsApp channel describing the session as “really useful,” “fascinating,” and saying it made them feel “more reassured.”
We would like to thank the leaders and members of the 21st Purley and District Scout Group for their warm welcome and enthusiastic participation. Engagements like this are an important part of building trust, confidence, and positive relationships with our local community.
 We will continue to tackle robbery in your local area. While we are investigating and arresting those responsible, please consider following the below advice to keep yourself and your property safe: Do not leave your phone, tablet or other digital goods unattended, out of sight or on a table. Be aware of your surroundings and only use your phone when it is safe to do so. Put your phone away when you have finished using it. Secure your phone by choosing a strong pin or password Keep a note of your IMEU number (to access, type *#06# on your phone keypad) Plan your route, especially if you are going somewhere you have not been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets and walkways. Move with purpose and appear confident.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. | 
