Police and partners help street drinkers move on

Warwickshire Police and Stratford-on-Avon District Council along with Warwickshire County Council, Stratforward, Bardwatch and the Recovery Partnership are working together to reduce street drinking and associated nuisance behaviour in Stratford town centre by combining robust enforcement action with support to help those concerned move on with their lives.
 
Inspector Faz Chishty of Warwickshire Police explained: “The issue of individuals gathering to drink in Stratford town center has long been a concern for local residents and businesses. Shoppers and residents can feel intimidated by their presence and businesses believe that it deters customers from frequenting shopping areas.
 
The problem has proved difficult to deal with in the past, as street drinkers often have many underlying issues such as alcohol or drug addiction, physical and mental health problems or housing difficulties.    However we hope this new approach will help resolve the situation."
 
The first stage of 'Operation Mitcheldean' has already started.  Warwickshire Police have issued warning letters to a number of individuals, explaining what the concerns of the community are and advising that drinking in the street will no longer be tolerated, alcohol will be seized and continued failure to comply with directions to stop may result in a fine or a criminal record.  
 
Individuals will also be signposted to support agencies, with staff from the Recovery Partnership on hand to offer advice and encouragement for individuals to take up recovery-focused treatment services to improve their quality of life.