How to Set up a New Scheme
Considering forming a local group means you have made a positive start to act against crime in your community. You will also become part of one of the largest and most successful grass-roots movements in the country.
A lot of people do not realise that Neighbourhood Watch can save you money on your house insurance. Many insurance companies look very favourably at being a member of an active Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, due to the improved security awareness.
It's not about being a nosy neighbour, it's about being concerned for the people that live in and share your street - your neighbours.
Neighbourhood Watch, which works closely with the local police, keeps you informed of local crime trends through newsletters and other communications. This allows you to take precautions against the possibility of being another crime statistic.
How to go about starting a scheme in your street:
1. Find out how many other people in your street are interested.
2. Contact your local police station and speak to your local police officer.
3. Arrange a venue and time that is convenient for all people concerned, to hold a start up meeting.
4. Nominate a person to act as your scheme coordinator. This person will be the point of contact for the police and the Group Coordinator.
5. Hold a meeting with the police, the Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator and your neighbours.
If it all goes well and enough people are interested then you will be recognised as a Scheme and start to receive information immediately.
It costs very little, but just needs a small amount of time.
What am I expected to do?
Just the fact that you have made a positive commitment to act against crime in your street is a good start. Members are expected to be alert and respond to what is going on in their neighbourhood.
But of course, you can become as active as you like! If you have time, you could put out newsletters, or even organise meetings or events.
However, the most important thing the scheme asks is that you are the eyes & ears in your community. Like milk on the doorstep, letters not pushed through, dustbins out all night, these signs attract criminals.