Bolton’s new community safety lead has set out plans to reduce crime by tackling its deepest causes, from poor mental health and school exclusion to unemployment and housing instability. Cllr Hamid Khurram, the recently appointed Executive Member for Stronger Communities, will champion a partnership between the council, police, probation, fire and rescue, health services, schools, and community groups.
Recorded crime in the borough fell by 4.3% in 2025/26 compared with the previous year. Building on that progress, the new approach aims to prevent offending before it happens by addressing issues such as substance misuse and the exploitation of children and young people. Victims and vulnerable residents will receive timely support, while residents are encouraged to help shape local solutions.
The work is part of the wider Bolton2040 Borough Plan, launched by the Bolton Vision Partnership in March 2026 at The Albert Halls. Its fifth mission pledges to make the town safe and protected, with confident, cohesive communities. Before taking on the role, Cllr Khurram was the council’s lead for transport and housing. The community safety portfolio was previously held by Cllr Rabiya Jiva, who asked councillors across all 20 wards to identify their top crime priorities to help shape a flexible policing response aligned with the Greater Manchester Police and Crime Plan.
Strategic assessments by the Bolton Community Safety Partnership will continue to identify priorities and develop delivery plans, while partnership working remains central to tackling crime and the fear of crime across the borough.
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