Sedgefield Borough Council has an active role in the work of the Burglary Action Group.

The Sedgefield Borough Community Safety Partnership was formed in 1999 in response to the requirements of the Crime and Disorder Act.

Its aim is to work in partnership to reduce crime and disorder and the fear it generates in order to improve the quality of life for the people of the borough.

Jayne Chaytor is the borough's crime and disorder co-ordinator. The post was created in 1999 and is unique in County Durham.

Speaking about the action group, Ms Chaytor said: "This group has been very successful in developing a multi-agency approach to achieving its aims.

"It has been recognised that the reduction of crime is not just the responsibility of the police force, other agencies have an important part to play."

She added: "The Burglary Action Group encompasses a range of activity aimed at the reduction of burglary and the fear of burglary.

"The success of the group has ensured a consistent reduction in levels of burglary within the borough and we have also worked to secure funding to make vulnerable homes and individuals safe."