Making people feel safer by increasing uniformed patrols is key. In one high rise estate, the 'Adopt a Block' scheme ensures every resident now has the name and number of the PCSO who has 'adopted' their block, increasing their day-to-day contact with police and, in turn, building closer relationships with these communities.

In one block the scheme has proved so successful that information from the local residents has led to the closure of two 'crack houses'.