Neighbourhood Watch

Crime can unfortunately affect everyone; to make your neighbourhood a safer place to live why not take the time to read this information sheet and set up your own Neighbourhood Watch group.

What is a Neighbourhood Watch group?

It is a group of neighbours working together to help one another to reduce crime in the area.  Getting to know who lives in our neighbourhood and being familiar with their daily routine could result in the levels of crime reducing.

Who would run the group?

The simple answer is you.  Everyone in the Street or Road you live in can join the group and be involved in the running of it.  You will be supported by both the local Police and by the local Neighbourhood Watch organisation, who will pass on information to the group about local criminal activity.

What benefits would the group bring to the area?

The most obvious benefit would be the reduced levels of crime, but this is not all.... Working together with a common goal in mind is likely to increase community spirit and thus make your neighbourhood a more pleasant place to live.

How can I set up a Neighbourhood Watch group?

Firstly talk to your neighbours, if there are enough people interested then the next step is to telephone the Police Neighbourhood Watch Section on Tel: 08457 444 888 and they will guide you through the process of setting up a new group or put you in touch with someone who will help you.

How to run a Neighbourhood Watch group.

Get to know your neighbours and become familiar with their routines.  You will all become partners in watching the activities in your street.

Report unusual or suspicious behaviour to the police.  Write down descriptions of the person/people and car registration numbers of any vehicles involved.

Be concerned - it is the most effective method to reduce or even prevent crime.

Exchange names and telephone numbers, this will improve communication and improve the success of the group.

Inform a neighbour if you are going away, also leave them a way of contacting your in an emergency.

Arrange to look after your neighbour's house when they are away, they in turn could do the same for you.  This could include collecting mail, newspapers and other deliveries which at a glance could indicate that no one is at home.

Establish and attend regular meetings and your local crime prevention officer.

There is a great deal of literature available on crime prevention, by becoming involved and helping one another, you too can be safe from crime.