Lithgow residents will have an opportunity to talk to the men and women who keep their streets safe thanks to the Coffee with a Cop initiative.
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On Thursday morning from 10am, officers from Chifley Local Area Command will be at the Wollemi Bakery & Cafe on Main Street.
The aim of the program is to build relationships with the community and give people the chance to talk about community issues.
Chifley Crime Prevention Officer Senior Constable Sue Rose said Coffee With A Cop is a national initiative that is also used by the United States Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.
“It gives community members the chance to come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community ideas and build relationships,” she said.
“It provides a unique opportunity for people to ask questions and learn more about police work in the community.”
“The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time,” she said.
“There are no agendas or speeches, just a chance to ask questions, voice concerns and get to know officers in your neighbourhood.”
She said the majority of law enforcement’s contact with the public happens during emergencies or emotional situations.
“Those situations are not always the most effective time for relationship building, and some people may feel officers are unapproachable on the street,” Sen Const Rose said.
Chifley Local Area Command Acting Superintendent Glenn Cogdell agreed.
“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” he said.
“These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”