REACHING out to residents of Glasgow North West is the top priority for the area’s new community cop.

Community Inspector Neil MacDougall recently started in the role which sees him responsible for a patch including Drumchapel, Yoker, Scotstoun and Knightswood.

The 36-year-old has considerable experience of community policing and told the Post: “I’m really enjoying my new role.

“Things have been busy but at the moment, disorder and anti-social behaviour appear to be on the decrease.

“The summer is traditionally a busy time but at present, the number of reports is relatively low.” Inspector MacDougall is no stranger to the area, having previously worked in another role in Drumchapel for nine months as well as enjoying spells in Maryhill and Possil.

Priorities in Glasgow North West largely reflect those being addressed by Police Scotland across the country. They include dealing with violent crime, drug dealing, crimes of dishonesty and anti-social behaviour.

He said: “Each year, we take part in a public consultation to find out what issues are affecting people most and those are the matters which came to the top of the list.

“It’s important we have a presence in the community and that our officers are out there regularly.

“We have large areas along by canals so it’s important to have foot and cycle patrols so residents can feel safe.” In an age where more and more people are engaging with each other online, Glasgow North West’s officers are no exception.

“I think it’s really important that we have a strong social media presence so we can reach out to all members of the community,” Inspector MacDougall explained.

“In the modern day, so many people use Facebook and Twitter so it is a great way of engaging.

“We plan to increase our presence further in the coming weeks and months, with officers out and about keeping people updated as they go about their daily business.” One area where social media does not play a role is in the reporting of crime, a position the inspector does not see changing any time soon.

He continued: “I think there would be real challenges using social media to report criminal matters.

“If there is an ongoing incident, the most immediate way to get in touch is by calling; that is by far the best way reach the police.” The force in Drumchapel and the surrounding area enjoys strong partnerships with other local organisations including the G15 Youth Project and community development service, Cope.

Inspector MacDougall said: “The people at Cope do fantastic work dealing with issues like inequality and health and wellbeing.

“When organisations do a lot of great work like that, it makes a huge difference to the community.” The community inspector added: “We rely heavily on the public to let us know when things are happening and who is involved.

“People can come to the police station, go along to community council meetings but mainly by picking up the phone and dialling 101 when something is taking place.

“It’s about keeping people safe and providing that assurance.” Anyone looking to keep updated with Police Scotland’s activities in Glasgow North West can follow the division on Twitter: @GlasgowNWPolice.