Police cutbacks mean it's vital the borough's residents help shape the force's crime-fighting priorities, the council has warned.

The authority spoke as it launched plans for next year's fifth-annual crime summit, an initiative credited with contributing to a supposed fall in crime since its inception in 2006.

And with the government cutting large numbers of officers to tackle the economic crisis, the council says the summit will be more vital than ever.

Councillor Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime, said: "In challenging economic times it is vital local people help shape the crime-fighting priorities of the police and council so that resources are targeted in the most efficient way possible.

"My basic message is, if you have a problem with crime come along and tell us and we will sort it out."

Under the banner ‘your priority, our goal’, next year’s summit, which is being held on March 5 at Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC in Fulham, will feature four themed workshops covering anti-social behaviour, environmental crime, drugs and alcohol and staying safe.

In addition, there will be short presentations from senior police officers, including the borough commander, Detective Chief Superintendent Kevin Hurley.

David Millar, chairman of the Neighbourhood Watch Borough Association, says the summit is an excellent idea.

"It's very useful but we need it to become even more focused on the day-to-day reality of crime on our streets if it is going to benefit residents even further.

"For our part, residents can’t do much to solve the really big crimes like murders, but we can help by reporting things to the authorities and by becoming more proactive in challenging the low-level anti-social stuff which is such a menace."

Police will be sent feedback on the key issues raised during the workshops and these priorities will then be tackled by police and council officers throughout the year.

Mr Smith added: "We pioneered this consultative approach in H&F and the summit has become invaluable in understanding residents’ priorities. We will be in full listening mode again and I want even more residents to come forward and tell us their concerns."

Police say crime has fallen for six years in a row, with 34,000 fewer incidents since 2002, but concerns over the proliferation of knife and gun crime have been raised in the borough this year after a string of high profile, violent attacks.

* This year’s event will be hosted by Chelsea Football Club, at their Stamford Bridge home, and includes refreshments and a buffet lunch. It's free to all borough residents. If you would like to book a place or want more information please email crime.summit@lbhf.gov.uk and provide your name and contact details or visit www.lbhf.gov.uk/crimesummit2011. Alternatively, call 020 8753 2359.