Community Safety and Well-Being

Community safety and well-being are at the heart of building a vibrant and thriving community. By addressing key areas like mental health, social inclusion, and public safety, we can create neighborhoods that are safe, welcoming, and supportive for all. A strong focus on improving living standards, promoting equity, and fostering a sense of belonging helps ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and play in a healthy, inclusive environment. Together, we are working towards a safer, more connected, and resilient community for all residents.

For more information, please contact Elaine Knox, Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor

Learn more - view the 2024 Annual Report

Upcoming Events

May 24, 2026
Safety, Self-Defence & Walking Home

With the continued implementation of the Community Safety and Well Being Plan, we are pleased to offer our annual personal safety and self defence workshop for residents. Now in its third year, this program supports the CSWB Plan’s focus on prevention, community connection, and helping residents build confidence and practical skills to feel safer in their daily lives.

This free workshop is delivered in partnership with Villari’s Martial Arts Centre and led by Master Joan Richert, a tenth degree black belt with over 40 years of teaching experience at Villari’s Studios of Self Defense. Master Richert is known for creating inclusive, supportive classes that empower participants of all experience levels and physical abilities through simple, effective personal safety and self defence techniques.

Participants will learn practical strategies focused on awareness, confidence building, and personal safety that can be applied in everyday situations.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable activewear and running shoes.

View the registration page

Community Safety & Well-Being

Advisory Committee

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2024-2029

Community Safety &
Well-Being Plan

View CSWB Plan

Locations & Resources

Warming and
Cooling Centres

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Affordable and Emergency Housing

Housing Support

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Pickering's 7 Priorities

1. Improve Community Vitality
2. Strengthen Learning, Education, Partnership, and Creative Communities
3. Create Safe and Welcoming Neighbourhoods
4. Increase Physical Health and Mental Wellness
5. Improve Living Standards
6. Support Basic Needs
7. Promote EDI (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion) Accessibility, and Reconciliation

Durham Regional Priority Risk Factors

1. Mental Health
2. Substance Use
3. Homelessness and Basic Needs
4. Criminal Involvement
5. Victimization
6. Social Isolation
7. Experiences of Racism

Actions & Outcomes

Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) Plan

This plan is a guide to growing the community in a manner that supports individual safety and builds on the sense of community found throughout Pickering. The plan addresses needs, identified by municipal staff, stakeholders, and residents, that currently exist and is adaptable to address new concerns as they arise.

Community Safety & Well-Being Annual Reports

Each year, the City organizes, plans, and delivers programs and services that support community safety and well-being. The 2024 Annual Report highlights the continued implementation of the City’s Community Safety & Well-Being (CSWB) Plan and showcases the programs, initiatives, and partnerships that contributed to safer and more connected communities throughout the year.

Engagement Opportunities

Let's Talk Pickering...

The City's community engagement platform is where members of the community are invited and encouraged to participate in online opportunities; share experiences, and insights on our community.

Visit letstalkpickering.ca/cswb

Current Opportunities

I Feel Safe Here - community map