THEOs outside Tower Hamlets Town Hall
Applications are now open for a number of new Tower Hamlets Enforcement Officers (THEOs) in a push to drive down crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Tower Hamlets.
This is part of Tower Hamlets Council’s ongoing investment in community safety to make sure that Tower Hamlets is safe for everyone who lives, works or visits the borough.
The council is encouraging more women and people from the local community to apply so the THEO service is representative of Tower Hamlets.
THEOs have police powers under section 50 of the Police Reform Act to obtain a person’s details and to tackle ASB, drugs and violence.
They also work with organisations within the borough to help those who need support, such as people who are struggling with substance misuse and those who are sleeping rough.
Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said:
“Our THEOs are at the forefront of tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in our borough, but they also have a huge role to play in engaging with our communities and offering support and reassurance to those who need it.
“This recruitment drive will mean we have more uniformed patrols in our borough than ever before. We hope this will increase safety in our borough and act as a deterrent to those who think they can take the law into their own hands.”
Throughout April, Tower Hamlets Council will be running a series of open evenings where anyone interested in applying to be a THEO can find out more about what the role involves. This includes a virtual option for anyone who can’t attend in person.
Successful applicants will be provided with all the necessary training needed to carry out the role and will be paid for the duration of this.
Training includes a full first aid course, safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls training and mental health awareness training, among others.
Cllr Abu Chowdhury, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Growth, said:
“This recruitment drive offers a fantastic opportunity for local employment, and I’d encourage anyone looking for a varied role that will make a real difference to the community to apply.
“All of our THEOs should be proud of the work they do to support residents and keep our streets safe and it’s a testament to their work that we’re now able to open recruitment up on this scale.
“We’re keen to make the application process as accessible as possible, and our upcoming open days will give aspiring applicants the chance to find out more.”
THEOs already in post have been sharing the reasons they enjoy the role, which can be read on the council’s website.
To read the testimonials and find out more about THEO recruitment, including open evenings, visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/THEOrecruitment
Posted on Tuesday 4th April 2023