A JOINT partner agency operation is being carried out to address issues in blocks of flats around Whitehaven town centre - after reports that some residents within the town centre have face intimidation from people sleeping in communal areas.

Copeland police have said they are working with housing provider Home Group after being made aware of a number of incidents in which people are sleeping and loitering in some communal area's of Whitehaven town centre flat blocks.

In a statement on social media, Copeland police said: "Copeland Police are aware of reports by the community in relation to communal areas of flats in Whitehaven Town Centre being misused by non-residents. We are working closely with Homegroup to address these issues."

Home Group have encouraged residents in the affected flats to report any issues of rough sleeping or loitering near there homes to come forward and report and incidents.

In a letter to residents, Home Group said: "These incidents have included people damaging communal area's, committing anti-social behaviour and intimidating residents.

"Such behaviour is not acceptable and I want to re-assure residents that we and our partner agencies take this very seriously. Its important that customers and residents of Whitehaven Town Centre feel safe in their own home."

It continued: "Whilst we appreciate that people may have found themselves experiencing difficult times and without accommodation, we are clear that residents within the town should be able to enjoy their homes free of intimidation. Where appropriate, we will continue to work with our partner agencies to provide advice ,signposting and forward referrals where support is required."

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