Police say lockdown message ‘is getting through’ but high visibility patrols will continue in Page Hall

South Yorkshire Police has admitted that enforcing lockdown rules in some parts of Sheffield has been a challenge but the message is finally ‘getting through’.
By Claire Lewis
Published 8th Apr 2020, 09:21 BST
Updated 8th Apr 2020, 15:20 BST
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The force was urged to act and Sheffield MP Gill Furniss was also asked to look into the issue when photographs emerged showing crowds gathering on the streets of Fir Vale despite the UK being in lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

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Former Sheffield MP Ibrar Hussain said those ignoring lockdown rules were putting lives at risk.

Crowds gathering on the streets of Fir Vale in Sheffield.Crowds gathering on the streets of Fir Vale in Sheffield.
Crowds gathering on the streets of Fir Vale in Sheffield.

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In response, South Yorkshire Police said high visibility patrols and ‘enhanced engagement activity’ will continue in the Fir Vale and Page Hall areas of the city as officers ‘continue to encourage compliance with Covid-19 restrictions’.

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Superintendent Delphine Waring said: “A significant amount of people living in Page Hall and Fir Vale do not speak English as their first language, this naturally presents challenges for us in communicating the significance of the current situation.“It also means it is more difficult to explain the specifics of social distancing and keeping people apart, especially when there are cultural differences to consider too.“Communication with our communities and building relationships is something that the local team have been working hard to improve for a while now and that is paying off.”The force has delivered thousands of leaflets translated into multiple languages to homes outlining government directions.There will also be a ‘consistent police presence in key locations’ this week and into the Bank Holiday weekend.Supt Waring added: “The message is getting through and over the last few days we have seen a greater understanding of government guidance, which is fantastic.“The reality is we are still seeing some small groups gathering outside properties and in public spaces. Although this is a minority of people, if this continues, we will use enforcement measures in order to protect the public, the NHS and save lives. “Officers will respond accordingly. We have the power to disperse gatherings, remove people and take them home and we can also close premises and issue fines. “We are approaching a bank holiday weekend and our patrols will continue throughout. Thank you to all of those who have supported us so far.”