Brent Council has announced its community safety strategy for the next three years, as it looks to reduce crime and increase security in the borough.

The report, which seeks to build towards a ‘safer Brent’, examines five key areas, with a particular focus on tackling knife crime.

It also hopes to reduce domestic and sexual abuse, combat anti-social behaviour, protect those who are vulnerable and reduce the chances of reoffending.

Cllr Tom Miller, responsible for community safety at Brent Council, said: “We know we are fighting a battle across London in terms of violent crime.

“Knife crime has an elevated priority, and we are aware of that problem in Brent.

“We recognise that there is crime in our borough and we also recognise that there are issues relating to mental health and social justice”

He explained that, while knife crime has reduced by five to six per cent, Brent remains a priority borough and is consistently in the top ten in London when it comes to crime levels.

The report was backed by several councillors when it was announced at a cabinet meeting yesterday.

Cllr Shama Tatler agreed that focusing on prevention was a key first step, while deputy leader of the council, Cllr Margaret McLennan, championed its “holistic approach”.

Cllr Eleanor Southwood described the plan as one that will “take [Brent] in the right direction”.

She added: “I feel like we have been smart and targeted with this and we are thinking about those who make up the borough.

“This is about keeping people safe and creating an environment that will make them less vulnerable to gangs and so on – it’s exactly the sort of strategy we need.”

As part of the campaign, the council will introduce an improved CCTV service. This will cost £2.3 million and is included in the current capital programme.

The rest of the strategy will be funded by council revenue and contributions from the Home Office and the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime.