RISING levels of crime and anti-social behaviour are issues I’ve heard again and again from people across the Two Cities.

I’m tackling this head-on and thanks to thousands of local people who responded to my survey, My Plan to Make Westminster Safer.

Shaped by you, My Plan focuses on your priorities; increasing police visibility; tackling anti-social behaviour; enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on cannabis smoking in public spaces; re-establishing the city council’s integrated street engagement unit to support the most vulnerable, and having police leadership laser-focused on our neighbourhoods. You can read My Plan in full at: nickie.news/MyCrimePlan

But it’s so important our police get the support they need and deserve. That’s why I joined the West End Proactive Patrol police team for a night shift in July so I could see the issues they face night after night to keep us safe.

The West End is a hotspot for criminal activity and I heard from the police about how they are dealing with drug-taking, thefts, robberies and assaults.

I also spoke to one very brave officer who had been assaulted while out on patrol in Leicester Square only a few weeks ago.

The government has recruited an extra 20,000 police officers across the country, including 3,468 for the Metropolitan Police Service, but we must see these extra officers out on the street on patrol.

And preferably on foot.

I have raised my concerns with our police leadership in Westminster and also with the deputy mayor for policing. Read more at: nickie.news/WestEndPolice

On a more positive point, those of us who live in Westminster know the strong communities our neighbourhoods are home to. So let’s celebrate and showcase them via my summer photography competition. Running until September 12, pick up your phone or camera and take a picture that captures what our neighbourhoods across the Two Cities mean to you. Take a look at 2022 winners and find out more at: nickie.news/SummerSnaps

• If I can be of help on any issue, please send me an email: nickie.aiken.mp@parliament.uk or write to Nickie Aiken MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA. Keep up to date with how I’m working for you at www.nickieaiken.org.uk or on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube at @TwoCitiesNickie