Shopkeepers and their customers are benefitting from a new fast-tack tool to report anti-social behaviour in Darlington thanks to the ingenuity of a young police cadet.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen has funded 2,000 new stickers containing a QR code that allows shopkeepers, businesses and shoppers to report anti-social behaviour (ASB) instantly via their smartphone.
The concept originated from a young police cadet called Jacob who came up with the idea while carrying out a leaflet drop in Darlington to raise awareness of ASB and where victims can access support.
Operation Trailblazer was a police and partnership operation which ended in March 2024 involving the delivery of extra enforcement and visibility patrols across some 34 communities in County Durham and Darlington that have suffered long-running issues with ASB and disorder.
As part of the multiagency scheme, cadets have delivered thousands of leaflets to deter and prevent ASB, while also participating in engagement events hosted by the PCC.
Jacob thought it would be far easier and more impactful to distribute stickers with a QR code which can be displayed in shop windows and public noticeboards in Darlington Town Centre to enable people to report ASB swiftly and simply on their mobile phones.
The Commissioner is believed to be the first PCC in the country to give cadets such a prominent role to play in the operation and was delighted to support Jacob’s suggestion.
Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “Jacob’s idea was brilliant! It gives people a quick and simple route to report ASB on the spot which is exactly what residents and businesses have asked for.
“I’m really proud of the ongoing role our cadets are playing in reducing anti-social behaviour this project shows just how valuable their support and input is. We can learn a lot from young people and their uncomplicated insight into local problems. Raising awareness of the channels available to report crime and ASB has been a focus for my team for some time, and I am delighted Jacob has been able to help.”
Durham’s Volunteer Police Cadet programme is run by Durham Agency Against Crime (DAAC) and has inspired hundreds of young people from all backgrounds to learn more about policing since launching – with many going on to become fully fledged police officers, PCSOs and Police Staff.
Since 2023, the Commissioner has invested £108,132 in supporting the Cadet cadre, with a further £142,568 committed for the period 2026–2028, to strengthen DAAC’s work with young people. This funding directly enables her to respond to the priorities identified by local residents and businesses through her public consultation.
Ends
PCC Joy Allen explains why tackling alcohol and drug-related crime remains a priority, including interventions such as alcohol monitoring tags
New changes have come into force offering victims in Durham unparalleled support and protection from persistent anti-social behaviour
PCC Joy Allen has signed the ASB Help Pledge on behalf of partners confirming a shared commitment to support and amplify the voices of victims of ASB
