Lancashire Police has teamed up with Chinese Groups in Preston and Blackpool to launch the Chinese community help and information phone service. This new concept which has been running for more than a month has been developed to increase engagement and raise trust and confidence between the police and members of the Chinese community.

The phone service is staffed between 10am and 8pm daily (there is the facility to leave a message) by specially trained Chinese volunteers who speak Mandarin. On ringing 01772 209988 the caller will have the opportunity to speak, in their native language, to one of these volunteers who have received training in key areas of policing. They will be able to ask for help on community issues and crime in their area and will be advised and signposted on how to resolve their problem and get help.

Detective Inspector Laura Lawler said: “We are aware that very few crimes and community issues are reported to us from members of the Chinese community, we hope that this new phone service will support and encourage them to get the assistance they need, when they need it.”

Jerry Yang Community Volunteer Coordinator, said: “The launch of the Chinese helpline is great news for students, local businesses and other members of the Chinese community in Lancashire. Our team of specially selected Chinese speaking volunteers will assist Lancashire Police by translating, dealing with issues and concerns, and increasing communication and engagement with the Chinese community.”

One of these volunteers Dr. Angela Guan said: “I am really excited to support the police helping to bridge any gaps and cultural differences whilst assisting members of the Chinese community who may have concerns about crime. The comprehensive training I have undertaken has given me a greater understanding of how the Police work and the confidence to deal with community issues.”

*The service which launched in May 2015 will not replace 999 or 101