'Language barriers' blamed for Page Hall gatherings in Sheffield

Chief constable Stephen Watson said proactive work in the community had led to a reduction in large groups of people on the streets of Page Hall following concerns from other residents.

He admitted they ‘had issues’ on the estate, but officers, along with translators from the Roma community, issued leaflets and spoke to people on doorsteps.

Mr Watson said the engagement in Page Hall had made a difference, but they would continue to monitor the situation.

It comes after residents complying with the lockdown posted videos on social media of large numbers of people gathered on the streets weeks after Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged people to stay indoors to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Police now have new powers to enforce the lockdown, but follow a ‘explain, engage, encourage’ model.

Enforcement and fines of up to £120 and possible court action could follow if previous steps are ignored.

It is understood no enforcement fines have been issued in the community but the force has taken dealers off the streets in other parts of Sheffield who were out selling drugs.

Mr Watson said: “We have had some issues in Page Hall, we have had issues where certain members of the community perhaps have been as well informed as they might be about the nature of restrictions.

“There have been some issues with language difficulties and understanding.

“Our officers have been intervening proactively in bringing about a real focus on education of those people including the production of leaflets in foreign languages.

“These are there so people properly understand what the restrictions are about and why they need to be adhered to. We are engaged with community leaders, faith leaders and people from within the community themselves.

“We are seeing a very significant reduction in some of those concerns that were first addressed to us.”