A crime reduction scheme in the north-west of England has won an international policing award, beating off competition from around the world. The Family Intervention Project, set up by Blackburn with Darwen’s Community Safety Partnership and run by the charity NCH, has taken the Herman Goldstein Award at the 18th Annual Problem-Oriented Policing Conference in America.

The project, which has achieved significant reductions in anti social behaviour, was one of five schemes selected to make a presentation at the event in Madison, Wisconsin. It aims to challenge, support, and resettle families as a way of addressing their anti-social behaviour and to ensure that children and young people can continue to live at home without causing distress or annoyance to others. As a result more than half of the families are no longer regarded as a risk to the community.

Councillor Alan Cottam, who chairs the Blackburn with Darwen Community Safety Partnership, said the award was further proof that partnership working really did bring success and Lancashire’s Chief Constable, Steve Finnigan, said his force had a tradition of developing problem oriented partnerships. “I am delighted that this effective project has been recognised in this way and will hopefully provide a positive way forward for lots of families and communities, both in Lancashire and beyond,” he added.

Another senior officer, Superintendent Tim Jacques, welcomed the prestigious international award and said, “This project has made a significant impact on the quality of life for local people. It demonstrates the benefits of working in partnership and I am very proud of their achievements.