How to set up a Neighbourhood Watch
Step by step guide to setting up your Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
Joint Activities
Having started a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme it becomes important for you to maintain the enthusiasm and thus the effectiveness of your scheme. The goal is to create an environment of community spirit where people care about their own and their neighbours’ property. In some parts of the country this spirit has developed to the point where Neighbourhood Watch groups hold parties, general gatherings and social outings. In addition members of the schemes have worked together to find solutions to local problems not connected with crime to the benefit of all concerned.
If you wish, your local Community police will gladly visit your Neighbourhood Watch group to talk over any topics of concern to the members – child safety, personal safety tips, vehicle protection, home security and the like.
Residents can do much to make their homes more secure by fitting adequate locks to doors and windows. Investigate the possibility of buying locks in bulk and having one or two members of the scheme fit them.
Similarly consider pooling resources within the group to purchase property-marking pens and all members can use engraving tools that can be used by all members. Remember that effective property marking can help to deter burglars, assist in the arrest and prosecution of criminals and facilitates the return of stolen property once recovered by police.