Supporting stronger communities: A conversation with Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Ian Foster

EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE

Putting communities back at the heart of policing is vital to what we do. Our teams are continuously working to improve visibility, strengthen engagement, and tackle the issues that matter most whether that’s through community hubs, school visits, patrols, or working directly with residents to resolve neighbourhood concerns.

Neighbourhood policing remains essential in building trust, reducing crime, and improving lives. Across Bridlington, Hornsea, Driffield, Withernsea, and Hedon, our officers are working relentlessly with local partners to create lasting, preventative solutions and safer, stronger neighbourhoods.

As part of our ongoing efforts and as part of the national Neighbourhood Policing Week of Action we spoke with Inspector Ian Foster about his role, his team, and the impact of the Clear, Hold, Build initiative: an approach centred on collaboration, ensuring communities are supported in reducing crime and maintaining long-term safety. Inspector Foster leads the initiative in the Bridlington South ward, where efforts focus on disrupting organised crime, reinforcing stability, and supporting long-term regeneration.

Ian, tell us about your journey in policing.

"I started my policing career in Bridlington 25 years ago as a Police Constable. After three years, I moved to Hornsea and later worked in Driffield, Hedon, and Withernsea all stations I now carry responsibility for. I specialised roads policing and spent time in the dog section, roles that took me across the force area.

"In 2016, I was promoted to Sergeant, working patrols in Beverley and Hull before advancing to Inspector of East Riding Patrol three years ago. Then, in January, I returned to Neighbourhood Policing back to the area where my career began, which is quite special."

What’s the difference between neighbourhood policing and patrol policing?

"Patrol policing is focused on responding swiftly to incidents as they arise. Officers handle emergencies, ensure public safety, and take immediate action to manage situations effectively. It’s fast-paced and unpredictable every shift brings something different, requiring quick thinking, adaptability, and decisive problem-solving.

"Neighbourhood policing, on the other hand, is proactive. Rather than responding to crime after it happens, we focus on prevention and engagement with the community. We identify concerns before they become bigger issues, working closely with local residents and forming long-term partnerships with local authorities, youth organisations, and businesses to create lasting solutions."

What role does Clear, Hold, Build play in neighbourhood policing?

"Clear, Hold, Build is designed to disrupt organised crime and create lasting improvements in communities. The strategy removes criminal influence from an area, maintains stability to prevent crime from resurfacing, and works closely with local partners such as schools, councils, and businesses to support regeneration efforts. By focusing on prevention, engagement, and rebuilding, we help communities become safer and more resilient in the long term.

"In Bridlington South ward, the initiative is working to drive out criminal activity, reinforce stability, and ensure lasting improvements by collaborating with local organisations and residents."

What work is happening in Bridlington South right now?

"At the moment, we’re focused on the hold and build phases reinforcing the groundwork we've laid to ensure long-term community safety.

"We’re tackling organised crime head-on, disrupting drug supply networks, and working with residents to make sure their concerns are heard. One example of our work is improving public spaces, not just renovating them but actively involving the community in the design process to foster a sense of ownership and pride.

"We’re also engaging landlords and businesses, encouraging them to play an active role in strengthening their surroundings."

How are residents contributing to Clear, Hold, Build?

"Community involvement is essential in making lasting improvements. Humbertalking has been a great tool for gathering insights and encouraging people to get involved. We also work with local schools on engagement projects, providing young people with positive opportunities to steer them toward constructive choices rather than criminal involvement."

What’s next for Clear, Hold, Build in Bridlington South?

"Our goal is to implement long-term changes that reduce crime, improve public spaces, and enhance engagement with local residents and organisations. This approach isn’t just about enforcement - it’s about tackling the root causes of crime and ensuring Bridlington South continues moving in a positive direction."

To stay informed about local policing efforts, follow @HumberBeat on Facebook and Instagram or sign up for My Community Alert at www.mycommunityalert.co.uk. If you have concerns about antisocial behaviour or crime in your area, reporting them helps us take action and keep our communities safe.