With the nearest police station located in neighbouring Rotherhithe, the centre was opened in 1994 to allow people to come in and report their concerns about crime. Volunteers John Hinds and Tony Charalmbidis keep the centre open three days a week. If they need the police we pass information on or arrange for someone to see them. Rotherhithe Insp Geoff Bishop said racial crime was particularly prevalent in the area and the centre means people do not have to report it to a police station or be visited by police at their home address. He believes the presence of the centre has helped to reduce all types of crime and the fear of crime in the area.
People know they have to be a bit careful because there is a police building here.
He said the contribution of the volunteers was immeasurable. They help to keep things calm and give us a good indication of what the public around here are actually feeling. I have got some spare time.