Joint Action Group

Targeted approach to problem-solving

Like the Community Incident Action Group (CIAG), the Joint Action Group (JAG) is a multi-agency problem-solving group accountable to the Safer Surrey Heath Partnership. The difference is that JAG seeks to address problems in specific locations in the community, as oppose to individuals. These could include nightclubs, shopping parades or recreation grounds. The police can use JAG to discuss potential dispersal orders in problem areas to deal with anti-social behaviour.

Using the expertise that exists within the group, JAG members decide priorities, agree action plans, allocate resources and ensure there is a co-ordinated response to issues highlighted at monthly JAG meetings.

Examples of issues dealt with by JAG include:

• Residential burglary
• Town centres (including street drinkers, town centre disorder etc)
• Substance misuse
• Domestic violence
• Disadvantaged communities
• Youth disorder/nuisance
• Anti-social behaviour and public reassurance
• Fear of crime and vulnerable groups
• Traveller issues

JAG interventions

During 2007/08, JAG processes were reviewed and restructured to ensure compliance with the National Intelligence Model. As at April 2008, six locations were being monitored, in accordance with the results of the 2007 Strategic Assessment Data Analysis Review. Targeted interventions have resulted in reduced incidences of anti-social behaviour in Camberley Town Centre and on Heatherside Recreation Ground. A scooter project, aimed at distracting young people from anti-social behaviour, has also been implemented. The Partnership continues to fund an administrator post to support the work of CIAG and JAG.