An operation launched to tackle the effects of anti-social behaviour in Wisbech including street drinking and begging has a "made a significant difference".
Operation Luscombe was launched in September last yar with an invention hub being created with a number of agencies involved including Fenland police team, Wisbech Town Council, Fenland District Council, drug and alcohol support services, employment, housing, mental health services, probation, the depart for work and pensions and an outreach support team.
The aim of the partnership was to reduce the harm caused by anti-social behaviour in the town centre on residents, businesses and visitors.
A four-stage approach was adopted with anyone found committing ASB, caught begging, or street drinking within the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) were put on the programme.
The four stages were: Stage 1 and invitation to the hub; failure to attend escalated to stage 2 which saw them issued with Community Protection Warning; a breach of this saw them escalated to stage 3 where a Community Protection Notice was issued - any breach of that was an arrestable offence and escalated to stage 4.
At this stage an application was made through the courts for a Criminal Behaviour Order to be put in place.
Since the implementation of the hub 45 people have been put onto the programme.
At a recent six-month review meeting the findings were as follows: Thirty-eight people ceased their behaviour at stage1; four people ceased their behaviour at stage 2; one person ceased their behaviour at stage 3 and two people now have Criminal Behaviour Orders to their name.
Inspector Andrew Morris from Fenland Neighbourhood Policing Team, who has led the operation, said: "It was clear we needed to do something to address the feedback from the community to support the service user, and the community who were affected by this.
"I am immensely proud of all the partners who have committed to this operation. They have made a significant difference to the lives of many vulnerable people, and the local community.
"We have been able to help several individuals address their substance misuse, get people back into employment, and support those who were previously homeless get permanent accommodation.
"I have to single out PC Bielawski from the Wisbech neighbourhood team for his commitment to this operation and for his hard work in really making a difference. The work he has done is exceptional.
"We are not resting on our laurels and we are still committed to improving the situation for everyone affected, and if you have any concerns then please report it to us."
You can report information to the police via the force website.