THE Shoalhaven’s first ever Coffee with a Cop has been hailed a success.
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The Shoalhaven Local Area Command held three community gatherings on Thursday, aimed at breaking down the barriers between the community and local law enforcement officers.
Shoalhaven LAC inspector and local Coffee with a Cop co-ordinator Susan Charman-Horton said the events in Berry, Nowra and Ulladulla were designed to allow police and community members to come together and discuss issues and build relationships, as the name suggests, over a cup of coffee.
“Coffee with a Cop is a statewide community engagement program which gives the local community the chance to speak with their local police,” said Inspector Charman-Horton.
“It’s a chance for the community to get to know us in a relaxed environment.
“Most of our contact with the public is during emergency or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community.
“Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.”
Miriam Mackie attended the Nowra event and said it was a great way to discuss local issues.
“It was great to be able to meet local officers and take the opportunity to ask questions, not only about the town area, but other issues as well,” she said.
“I’m in the process of applying for the police force, so I was able to get some of my other questions answered as well.
“This whole program is a great initiative.”
The get-togethers were held at the Milkwood Bakery in Berry; The Hopper Society in Nowra; and the Sandbar Cafe at Ulladulla, with Inspector Charman-Horton saying it is hoped Coffee with a Cop would become a regular event in other locations within the Shoalhaven.