A debate is growing in Trondheim over the perceived decline in public safety, particularly for young people, prompting calls for increased police visibility in residential areas. In a new opinion piece, Bendik F. Løkken, leader of Trondheim Unge Venstre, argues that a shift in police resource allocation-away from neighborhood stations like those formerly in Byåsen and Ranheim-has eroded community trust and preventative policing efforts. Løkken contends that consistent adult presence, beyond youth centers, is crucial for fostering safer neighborhoods and reassuring both young residents and thier parents.
It often begins subtly – a dispute, minor vandalism, an evening that spirals out of control. But when adults aren’t present, when intervention doesn’t come quickly, small incidents can escalate into much larger problems.
A growing concern among residents of Trondheim, Norway, is a perceived decline in public safety, particularly for young people. I’m hearing from students who are afraid to walk home from school alone, and teenagers who hesitate to call the police, believing a response won’t come.
The situation is particularly alarming when mothers express fear about raising their children in the city. When parents lose confidence in the safety of their neighborhoods, it signals a serious societal issue.
I have previously written about and advocated for youth centers, recognizing their importance in providing community, opportunities for growth, and a safe environment. But we must acknowledge that youth centers alone aren’t a complete solution. When young people leave these centers – whether they’re heading home, to the bus stop, or simply spending time in the city – they still need to feel secure knowing adults are present beyond the center’s walls.
This issue stems from a lack of visibility. A void has emerged as police resources have increasingly concentrated in the city center, diminishing their local presence in residential areas. When police are primarily encountered *after* an incident has occurred, rather than proactively preventing one, a crucial preventative tool is lost.
Er Trondheim virkelig en by for alle?
Er dette fett?
Trondheim once maintained police stations in several neighborhoods, such as Byåsen and Ranheim. This localized approach fostered police familiarity with the community, building relationships and trust. Officers knew the young people, families, and the unique dynamics of each area. Much of that connection has been lost, and the impact is keenly felt, especially by those who need a sense of security the most.
A visible police presence in neighborhoods also strengthens collaboration with schools. Local officers become familiar with the school environment, teachers, and the challenges students face. This facilitates early sharing of concerns, proactive intervention in conflicts, and engagement with young people in settings where they already spend their time. Without that local presence, this collaboration becomes weaker and more sporadic.
Young people don’t just need recreational activities and good intentions; they need consistent adult presence in their daily lives. They need to feel safe walking home from school, riding the bus, outside stores, and throughout their neighborhoods.
When police are visible in residential areas, they become an integral part of the community, not just a distant authority contacted after something has gone wrong. This fosters safer youth, more confident parents, and stronger communities overall.
If we want to encourage more parents to choose to raise their children in Trondheim, if we want young people to feel comfortable spending time together, and if we want to reverse this trend before more individuals fall through the cracks, we must prioritize local presence.
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