St John’s Park, Castlefield – Community Update

Castlefield’s Neighbourhood Officer has received ongoing reports of encampments and anti‑social behaviour within St John’s Park. Residents and local businesses raised concerns about used needles, drug‑related activity, and the impact this was having on children and families, particularly as the park is regularly used by local children and families visiting the Science Museum.

In response, officers have been working closely with Manchester City Council and the Street Engagement Team to address these issues in a supportive, safe, and community‑focused way.

Engagement With the Homeless Community

Throughout this week, officers carried out targeted engagement with individuals sleeping rough in and around the park. 

This included:

• Welfare conversations to understand personal circumstances and immediate needs
• Support referrals through the Street Engagement Team
• Discussing community concerns around discarded needles and safety, especially where children play
• Encouraging safer behaviour to reduce distress for families using the park

This approach ensures that vulnerable individuals are supported, while also responding to the issues affecting the wider Castlefield community.

Targeted Patrols & Ongoing Visibility

Alongside engagement work, officers have carried out targeted patrols across St John’s Park and surrounding routes. It is now clear that this activity has had a positive impact, with improved visibility and fewer reports of concerning behaviour.

Neighbourhood officers will continue regular foot patrols to maintain safety, reassure residents, and ensure the park remains a safe and welcoming space for children, families, and visitors.

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Castlefield - Coffee With a Cop – Wednesday 20th May 2026

We’d also like to invite residents, workers, and visitors to our next Coffee With a Cop session:

📅 Wednesday 20th May 2026
📍 Castlefield Hotel
👮 Hosted by PC Riaz

These informal drop‑ins are a great opportunity to:

• Raise concerns about your local area
• Get crime‑prevention advice
• Meet your neighbourhood officer in a relaxed setting

Everyone is welcome, and your feedback continues to shape our patrols and problem‑solving work across Castlefield.