Hub 'to build trust between police and residents'

The hub will offer a space for residents with concerns about crime to speak with officers and PCSOs

Money seized from criminals has been used to create a community hub in part of Leeds.

The Fusion 8 Community Hub on Bexley Road, Harehills, will offer a variety of support to people living in the area and a neutral space for residents to speak to police about any concerns.

West Yorkshire Police said it formed part of the force's CommUnity Harehills project, which focuses on the work of the police and partners through the Home Office's Clear, Hold and Build strategy, which was rolled out to police forces across England in 2023.

It involves a sustained campaign of action to target serious and organised crime in a specific area to ensure lasting improvements.

The hub is part of the Build phase, which focuses on long-term community development and crime prevention by addressing root causes and fostering local resilience.

Insp Richard Neeves, from the East Leeds Neighbourhood Policing Team, said they had carried out a campaign to dismantle and disrupt organised crime in the Harehills area since March 2023.

"By creating a space for people to talk to officers and get practical, everyday support we hope to continue building our relationship with the local community," he said.

'Build trust'

The hub has largely been funded by cash from the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS), which takes assets seized from criminals and distributes it to police forces.

In addition to providing a safe and neutral space for residents to speak with their local police officers, it will also serve as a food and hygiene bank and school uniform exchange.

Working with Places for People (PfP), the UK's leading social enterprise which provided the commercial unit, local PCSOs and PfP staff have volunteered their time to help transform the building into a welcoming space which will be open three days a week for two hours at a time.

PfP director Marcus Hulme said the hub was "a testament to what can be achieved when communities, public services and partners come together.

"It's about creating a space that meets real needs and helps build trust and resilience in the community.

"Fusion 8 reflects our mission to invest in places and partnerships that empower people, and we're proud to be part of something that will make a lasting difference in Harehills."

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