How to set up a Neighbourhood Watch
Step by step guide to setting up your Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
The Reporting of Crime
Not all crimes are reported to the police. Without your help in this respect, the police are powerless to do anything, so it is therefore important that you report all crime.
If you see something that requires immediate police attention dial 999. When ringing the police, emphasise that you are a member of Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and if you have a real objection to giving your name and address, give the name of your scheme. However, it cannot be emphasised enough that your name and address are preferable.
Remember
If you are reporting direct to the police, remember that you must ring immediately. A delay means the chances of catching a criminal are reduced.
Under no circumstances should any Neighbourhood Watch member take personal risks to prevent crime.
Many times it is what the victims and witnesses tell police about the crime and the criminal that results in an arrest. The following list will assist you in recording accurate information.
Descriptions
The police can use answers to as many of these questions as possible. Please remember that wrong information is worse than no information at all.
Answer only those questions that you are sure of.
- How many suspects were there?
- What did they look like (age/sex etc.)
- What did they do?
- What did they say?
- Which way did they go?
- Did they have a car and what was its number (even part of this will help) and what make and colour was it?
- Were there any witnesses? If so provide name and address
- Is there any other information you feel is important