On Wednesday they will host local youth mentors and teaching staff at Wollongong Police Station to give a better insight into some of the work they do.

Wollongong Local Area Commander, Superintendent Chris Craner said the program gave participants a chance to see various aspects of police work, including a station tour, a crime Scene demonstration and a Highway Patrol display.

“The program provides members of the community a chance to experience what it is like to be a police officer in the Wollongong Police District - it’s a real eye-opener, showcasing the varied and complex duties of policing,” he said.

“By imparting this knowledge to participants, it helps us better understand the needs of the community and foster strong relationships to ensure we work together toward mutual goals.

“We want our community to have full confidence in its police force by creating a more informed community through trusted and respected leaders, we believe we can achieve this goal,” Supt Craner said.

It’s just one of many strategies Supt Craner has thrown his support behind since taking charge of the command earlier year.

Keep an eye out for details of a community forum on December 5 where members of the public are invited to meet with senior police and air their thought and grievances.

It’s about real, honest communication, not a PR exercise.

The forum, at City Diggers from 6pm, is about working together to prevent crime.

“We hope that the community will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply meet the Senior Management Team the Wollongong Police District”, Supt Craner said.

Residents are also encouraged to stay in touch with Wollongong Local Area Command through social media.

You can like their Eyewatch page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WollongongLAC.