POLICE have initiated a new operation, in conjunction with Thurrock Council and Inclusions Visions – the borough's adult substance misuse treatment and support service – to try and help vulnerable members of the community who are vulnerable because they have substance dependencies.

The scheme, codenamed Operation Valour, will see police officers increasing their patrols and visits to areas known to be frequented by members of the homeless community to help ensure their safety.

Thurrock Council was among local authorities instructed by the government to offer care and help get homeless people off the streets and into safety during the coronavirus pandemic and Thurrock Nub News understand it has housed a number of people at the Ship Hotel in Thurrock, and others with a charity in Southend.

However, the council has failed to answer our questions about what it has done – or plans to do.

We have received feedback from a local source that some of those housed have since left the accommodation provided because they had no further support. Thurrock Council has been asked to comment.

Nevertheless help is on hand on the streets.

Essex Police's Raptor team, who specialise in tackling drug and gang-related crime, are also supporting habitual drug users who are struggling with the challenges of the current restrictions.

They are working with the team at Inclusion Visions and carrying out welfare visits to ensure individuals in need receive the right level of support and treatment to keep them safe.

Acting Sergeant Jonathan Kemp of the West Operation Raptor team said: "The current restrictions on our movements are difficult for all of us not least those who are homeless and therefore at greater risk of catching the virus.

"It is also a difficult time for those struggling with substance misuse issues who may not be able to get out to access their usual support services or friends and family who help them through.

"We have joined up with our partners at Thurrock Council and Inclusion Visions Thurrock to ensure we are supporting vulnerable members of our community.

"We are working hard to ensure homeless people are off the streets and safe and we are also ensuring that people are signposted to where they can get the right help.

"We are committed to protecting and serving all of the communities of Essex but also helping people to stay home and save lives."

As part of Operation Valour, targeted patrols are also being carried out around pharmacies and GP practices.

The patrols aim to prevent burglaries and thefts caused by the rising cost of Class A drugs.

Acting PS Kemp added: "We are realistic about the fact that some drug users may not wish to seek help and are continuing to consume Class A drugs.

"However as these drugs are becoming increasingly harder to come by, ruthless drug dealers are increasing the cost and this in turn could fuel a rise in acquisitive crime.

"We will not let that happen and are committed to continuing to prevent and detect all types of crime across the county and arresting those who think they can break the law and prey on the misery of others."

If you have concerns about crime in your community call Essex Police on 999 in an emergency, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously.

If you live in Thurrock, are aged 18 and over and are experiencing problems with alcohol or drugs contact Inclusion Visions Thurrock on 0300 303 1018 or visit their website.