Neighbourhood Watch

What is Neighbourhood Watch?
Neighbourhood Watch is the largest voluntary organisation in the UK. Behind it lies a simple idea, and a central value shared by some 6 million members in over 160,000 schemes nationwide. Neighbourhood Watch started in this country over 20 years ago. Everyone knows that the police are there to fight crime but they cannot succeed on their own - they need support from the public. This support can be given most effectively by forming a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Whatever the problem in your neighbourhood, you have the power to do something about it and when several people act as a group it becomes much easier. Neighbourhood Watch provides a way for local residents to get together and do something about matters they are concerned about.

How does Neighbourhood Watch work?
Neighbourhood Watch schemes can be large covering, for example, most of the households on an estate or they might involve just half a dozen houses. It depends on the area and what people living there want. A scheme is generally led by a volunteer co-ordinator whose job is to get people working together and make sure things get done.

What is Torbay Neighbourhood Watch?
We are fortunate to live in the Torbay area which has relatively low crime and disorder trends.

However, many reported crimes are the result of lack of security, complacency that it only happens to somebody else or general apathy where crime prevention is concerned - areas where we possibly are all guilty. It is important that we do not become paranoid about crime, but it is essential to take sensible precautions to lessen the risk of becoming a victim.

Because of this Torbay Neighbourhood Watch has a vital role to play:-

	establishing and maintaining schemes.
	ensuring that all members act on all information given.
	returning information to the Police so that we can all tackle crime together - in partnership.

With the first scheme in Torbay being set up in 1985, to date there are over 257 schemes in Torbay with some 12,000 to 15,000 members. This represents approximately 12% of the population.

How do I start a local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme?
Decide on the area you want to cover, which could be a street, cul de sac, or block of houses or flats together. A scheme can vary from four or five properties up to entire streets so it is up to you to decide how big or small your proposed scheme will be. Canvas your neighbours and establish their interest. If on average 70% are interested then it is worth proceeding.

Next contact the Crime Reduction Officer on 01803 841489 / 841496 or the Neighbourhood Watch helpdesk on 01803 841425 to arrange a meeting (at your home or neighbours) when the benefits associated with membership of Neighbourhood Watch can be explained.

What is the role of the co-ordinator?
Anyone can become a co-ordinator. The guidelines for running a successful scheme are laid down by National Neighbourhood Watch and they can be adapted to meet local needs. Neighbourhood Watch is a community initiative supported by you (not organised by the Police). It is up to you how you run the scheme but here are some of the best practices already in place in established and successful schemes:-

	first contact point for Police.
	passing information to members
	distribute crime prevention material including the twice yearly newsletter.
	encourage immediate reporting of suspicious incidents or offences occurring in your area.
	circulating new ideas and initiatives.
	ensure members have stickers and that the Neighbourhood Watch signs are displayed in the location.
	encourage and foster the community spirit within the scheme by collectively looking after the area in which you live.
	registering with the community.
	messaging scheme.

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

The Police will give you information on crimes locally that could affect you.
Crime within your community can be reduced as a result of Neighbourhood Watch.
Your community will be drawn closer together.
You will receive free crime prevention material and advice.
Some insurance companies can reduce your home insurance by up to 15% if you are a member of a scheme.
The Neighbourhood Watch helpdesk at Torquay is open to telephone callers for advice and information most mornings from 9.00am on 01803 841425 or via e-mail on: torbaynw-dcc@btconnect.com.
You will be making a positive contribution towards a safer Torbay.
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Who do I contact at Neighbourhood Watch?

TORBAY NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
Crime Reduction Office
c/o Torquay Police Station
South Street
Torquay
TQ2 5AH
Tel: 01803 841425