The basic principle of this is that for every Problem (crime or non-crime) there needs to be 3 elements, which form the Problem Solving Triangle as below :

The theory then, is that if you remove one of the sides, either the Victim, Location or Offender, then you no longer have the problem.

In order to tackle one of the three sides, you must first gather as much information as possible about each of the elements. The information is gathered from a number of agencies, both statutory and voluntary, private and business. You may find that one of the elements is more prevalent than the others and that by tackling that element, the problem will be solved. In other cases all three elements may need to be tackled.

Once all the information about the three elements is known, it is then possible to address them. This is done by a multi-agency approach. Some agencies have a statutory obligation to help solve the problem, such as the Police and Local Authority. Other agencies do so on a voluntary basis, such as Neighbourhood Watch, drugs agencies, Youth Groups etc. By each agency playing a small part in tackling each of the elements it is not such an onerous task.

You can read an example here.

Problem Solving Groups

The areas currently subject to Problem Solving Groups are …

• Eastfield (Scarborough)
• Barrowcliff (Scarborough)
• Castle Centre (Scarborough)

Should you require further information as to the work of the Problem Solving Groups please contact Barry Graham on 01723 232326.