Oldham 'gets raw deal on crime'

Agencies say people's concerns are taken seriously

People living in Oldham feel they get a raw deal when it comes to addressing their fears of crime, say local authorities.

The concerns were being addressed on Saturday during a multi-agency meeting in the Greater Manchester town that was hit with worst race riots in a decade, in 2001.

Mayor of Oldham, Riaz Ahmad, Labour MP Phil Woolas, and Chief Superintendent David Baines, head of Greater Manchester Police, were due to attend the meeting.

Organisers said the aim was to address issues raised during consultation meetings set up by Greater Manchester Police Authority (GMPA).

'Restore confidence'

The sessions showed there was a growing fear of crime on the Roundthorn estate, and concerns it is overlooked when it comes to preventing disorder.

Representatives of Crimestoppers, Citizens' Advice, housing, community safety and the fire service, were also due to attend.

The event took place at the ARC Community Centre in Abbeyhills Road, Oldham.

GMPA youth worker Maxine Moar said: "We will be informing the public of agencies working in their area.

"We will be telling them how to report crime, reassuring them that agencies take their concerns seriously and aiming to help restore public support and confidence."