What is it about?

The Local Community Safety Partnership is a government initiative that brings together statutory services, the voluntary and community sector, local councillors and community representatives to work collaboratively to identify and address community safety issues at a local level.

What is community safety?

Community safety is a broad concept that goes beyond policing and crime. It is about people being and feeling safe in their communities and includes a wide range of issues, from visible Garda presence and public safety to the availability of safe spaces for children and young people. Effective community safety requires a multi-agency approach, where services work together to meet the needs of local communities.

How does it work?

The Kilkenny Local Community Safety Partnership operates as a local forum where public services, elected members and community representatives work together to identify community safety priorities and develop solutions. Replacing the former Joint Policing Committee structure, the LCSP provides a coordinated approach to improving community safety and strengthening community wellbeing.

The LCSP is made up of representatives from key public services, the local authority, elected members and a broad range of community interests. The Partnership consults with communities throughout the county to understand local concerns and priorities. These priorities inform the development and delivery of the Local Community Safety Plan, which sets out agreed actions and initiatives to enhance community safety across Kilkenny.

LCSP members meet regularly to discuss local community safety matters, monitor progress on agreed actions and contribute to the ongoing implementation of the Community Safety Plan. Working groups may also be established to support the delivery of specific projects and initiatives.

What else do I need to know about this initiative?

The Local Community Safety Partnership brings together residents, community representatives, business interests, councillors, the voluntary sector, minority groups, local authorities and State agencies, including An Garda Síochána, Tusla and the HSE, to work collaboratively on improving community safety and wellbeing throughout County Kilkenny.

The Partnership is led by an independent Chairperson and supported by a dedicated Community Safety Coordinator.