Dereham Taskforce: 25 February 2026

Statement - Dereham Taskforce: 25 February 2026

Breckland Council and partners met on 25 February 2026 for the first meeting of the Dereham Taskforce, confirming a shared commitment to addressing community concerns and delivering coordinated action across the town.

The meeting, chaired by Rob Walker, Deputy Chief Executive at Breckland Council, brought together representatives from Breckland Council, Norfolk County Council, local schools, community organisations, the Safer Neighbourhood Partnership, Norfolk Police, the Department for Work & Pensions, About Dereham, and other partners.

The Taskforce agreed a clear governance structure, with Rob Walker continuing as Chair and Tony Needham (Dereham Town Council) appointed as Vice Chair. Members committed to a monthly meeting cycle, operating through consensus-based decision-making to ensure unified and transparent action.

A strong focus was placed on improving communications, with partners agreeing to develop consistent messaging and use their own communication channels, ensuring residents receive timely and accurate updates about the work taking place.

The Taskforce confirmed early actions to address several pressing issues raised by residents and local organisations:

Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)

Work continues on the proposed PSPO for Dereham. The public consultation closes on 1 March 2026, after which the statutory process—including an 'review' period and approval by Full Council—will follow.

Tailored Support for Vulnerable Residents

Partners will review the support currently provided and develop proposals for an improved, more coordinated grassroots offer, including services for mental health support, finance/debt, substance issues, employment, etc.

Housing and Accommodation

The Taskforce will develop clearer communications to explain how housing placements in Dereham are made by different organisations.

A detailed report will also be prepared examining the quality of accommodation, including HMOs, private rented properties, licensing, conversions, waste management and tenancy behaviour. This work will help identify options for stronger local controls.

St Withburga House
Following reports of disorder outside the nearby school, action has been agreed to identify the HMO's operator and coordinate an appropriate response.

High-Profile Enforcement Activity

Norfolk Police and Breckland Council's Street Wardens will work together to deliver visible, targeted enforcement activity to improve safety and reduce anti-social behaviour.

Community Representation Strengthened

The Taskforce unanimously confirmed it will welcome three new community representatives, reflecting strong public interest in supporting local solutions. Once appointed, these representatives will also help identify a business representative to join the group, ensuring local enterprise has a direct voice in shaping actions for the town.

Next Steps

Over the coming days, the Taskforce will:

• Issue a formal Action Tracker for partners
• Finalise and agree a communications statement for external publication

The next meeting will take place on Thursday 26 March at 15:30 at Elizabeth House, Dereham.

The Dereham Taskforce remains committed to taking practical, coordinated action — bringing together local agencies, community groups, and residents to improve safety, strengthen support, and help Dereham thrive.