Salford’s new District Commander is committed to adapting alongside the city

Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood has taken the helm as Salford’s newest district commander, and he is prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that the people of Salford can safely go about their day with confidence.

Ch Supt Neil Blackwood started his policing career in Oldham in 2002, where he worked in a variety of roles including on force wide operations targeting robbery and gang violence before joining the Serious and Organised Crime Group to tackle the most serious criminals across Greater Manchester. Most recently he worked as the lead for Operation Vulcan the world-renowned problem-solving initiative that tackled North Manchester’s ‘counterfeit street’ and saw the seizure of almost 1050 tonnes of counterfeit items and 216 shops shut down. This experience has led to him having a strong grip on recognizing when issues need addressing, how to best use force resources to ensure things don’t escalate and having a deep understanding of how to stop people making a profit from criminality.

Throughout his leadership, Ch Supt Neil Blackwood will be continuing to ensure that Salford’s safeguarding of victims and partnership work is adaptable and constantly improving to make certain there are suitable plans in place for the protection of victims, and most notably vulnerable women and girls.

Moreover, he is committed to bringing communities and partners together, to ensure a positive experience for people living in or visiting Salford. As a way to encourage enthusiastic contribution between GMP, partners and contribution Ch Supt Neil Blackwood is devoted to doing structured PACT meetings to allow better engagement with partners and the community.

Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood has said: “I am thrilled to be at Salford, it’s like a gift to be serving as its district commander.

“I have done a lot of work all throughout the district, so I know the area quite well and am excited to be able to use my experience and connections to bring a mini-Vulcan to Salford to ensure there is less criminal behaviour on the streets.

“Salford is a city that is continually growing and developing, it is vital that we as a police force can develop and adapt alongside. Myself, and each of the officers in my team, are more than prepared to step up and face the challenges that are presented to us. I am committed to ensuring that we are fit to serve the city appropriately.”

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