The Safer Vale Partnership has launched a new community reassurance vehicle which will be available for communities across the county.
Affectionately known as TREV – The Reassurance and Engagement Vehicle – it will bee seen throughout the region promoting a safer community for the residents of the Vale of Glamorgan.
TREV is a purpose built exhibition vehicle, which after nearly two years of planning and funding bids has finally been delivered in its striking new livery.
The new vehicle will provide a platform for all members of the partnership to improve public engagement opportunities with the differing communities throughout the Vale of Glamorgan.
The outside of the unit is decorated with a map of the Vale and includes photographs of popular points of interest. It is based on a standard Renault box van so it can be driven on a normal car driving licence.
However, when parked and deployed the vehicle is transformed. The sides open out and a front canopy raised to convert it into an office or meeting space complete with flat screen television and DVD, computer desk, lounge seats, running water and sink, an electrical supply from a diesel generator or mains adaptor provide power and lighting. Access to the unit is via fitted steps or ramps.
There has already been a lot of interest in the vehicle and it is hoped that Neighbourhood Policing Teams and community groups will take maximum advantage of the facility.
In one of its first outing the unit was deployed at the B A Cash and Carry on Hadfield Road in Cardiff – a popular wholesale outlet for many of the smaller stores in and around Barry, Penarth and the rural Vale.
Police officers from the Safer Vale Partnership took the opportunity to meet Vale shopkeepers and discuss wide number of topics ranging from crime prevention and anti-social behaviour to hate crime and volunteering.
One of TREV’s next deployments will be at Dinas Powys on Wednesday, December 1st when Neighbourhood Police Officers will set up the unit on Caerleon Road and run a street Surgery looking at local PACT issues and other matters of local concern. As well as Neighbourhood Officers, housing officers from United Welsh Housing Association and local councillors will be on hand to answer residents’ questions and address their problems.
Police Superintendent Jay Dave, area commander for the Vale of Glamorgan, said: “This is a fantastic asset for the Safer Vale Partnership. It is a mobile unit which can be taken to any district or community across the Vale of Glamorgan and I encourage community groups to get in touch with the Partnership to find out how it can benefit them.
“It will be an easily recognisable and welcoming presence in our communities and a great facility for everyone.”
Bookings for TREV can be made through Safer Vale Partnership on 01446 450200.
