http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/ Latest news and information from the Neighbourhood Watch en Neighbourhood Watch Copyright 2013 2013-05-22T14:15:53+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/can_we_help_your_scheme/ A new initiative, ‘Support a Watch’, has just been launched to promote Neighbourhood Watch and Home Watch projects and help them find the resources they need. One of the most common requests to the Neighbourhood & Home Watch Network (NHWN) from our members boils down to money – ‘cash in the bank’, advice on funding sources and applications, and help with the cost of printing and other materials. Coordinators give up huge amounts of their time without being paid and often contribute to scheme running costs out of their own pockets. ‘Support a Watch’ enables money and in-kind support to go straight to the schemes and projects that need it. It is an arrangement between a business or individual who wants to put something into their local community and a project that needs a boost.So what is ‘Support a Watch’? It centres around a page on this website where we will feature up to ten Neighbourhood or Home Watch projects at a time for periods of three months. Each of the projects will have a page dedicated to them with background information, descriptions of what they do, successes, aims, aspirations, pictures and contact details. ‘Support a Watch’ is more than just a web page. We will also help to promote your project in various other ways – you can read more details on our coordinator leaflet.If we get more than ten applications we do need to choose which will be the first ten to feature on the page, so if you think this could help your scheme we ask you to fill in an application form and send it in to us (details on the form). There are some guidance notes to help you. If your project is time-sensitive we will consider this when choosing which to feature first, and we might get in touch with the Key Contact Person to find out more information. Our aim is to highlight all the best bits of your work and make your project look as good as possible! For more information please see the Briefing & Application Guidelines or contact us by email or on 0116 229 3118. 2013-05-07T11:24:43+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/village_fighting_back_against_crime/ A family of shopkeepers is urging their customers to join the fight against thieves and petty criminals.The owners of Lower Hopton News are helping set up a new Neighbourhood Watch group after their shop was burgled.They are touched by the way the community has rallied together since thieves smashed a window and stole scratch cards and sweets.Julie Bruce, who runs the shop with her son Chris, said: “The only thing we have gained from this is how much our customers do think of us and the amazing response we have had from people in the area.”Chris, 23, discovered the damage when he arrived at work just before 5am on Friday May 3.“I didn’t know if they were still in here or not,” he said. “It was frightening.”The thieves also damaged a cigarette cabinet and the burglary has cost the shop around £1,500 in repairs.“It was quite devastating to be honest – we’ve spent 17 years building a business up,” said Mrs Bruce, whose husband Adrian also works at the shop in Calder Road.“We are struggling but we want to stay here, but when you get something like this it doesn’t help.”To help Lower Hopton News, local traders have made repairs as cost prices. “We knew it was a close community but I certainly didn’t realise how close and how supportive they all are,” Chris said.The family is now urging Lower Hopton residents to sign up for the new Neighbourhood Watch group. People can call into the shop, ring the store on 01924 493329 or visit www.ourwatch.org.uk.“All of a sudden, over the last few weeks, there has been quite a bit of small crime in the area – cars broken into, house burglaries, people breaking into sheds,” Mrs Bruce said. “I think people need to be aware.”Keith Haigh, of Calder Road, who is co-ordinating the Neighbourhood Watch, said: “There has been two or three houses done, the shop has been done, and it wants clearing up. It never used to be like this.”Contact the Dewsbury and Mirfield Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 with any information on the burglary at Lower Hopton News.Article courtesy of the Dewsbury Reporter 2013-05-22T14:15:53+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/a_refreshed_neighbourhood_watch_in_denmark/ On 27 November 2012, the Danish Crime Prevention Council (DKR) launched a new Neighbourhood Watch concept, Nabohjaelp, in cooperation with the Danish organisation TrygFonden (TF).The aim of the updated concept and the supporting information campaign was to create greater awareness among Danish citizens of the benefits of organised Neighbourhood Watch schemes and to encourage them to take more responsibility for crime prevention and security in their neighbourhoods.It was a busy and exciting period for Neighbourhood Watch in Denmark and now the time has come for them to share some of their experiences. You can read their latest report here or download the Executive Summary.They have over 22,000 registered households in their new digital database which gives them many interesting opportunities - both to be able to say something about the effect of Neighbourhood Watch activities in Denmark and also to support members and coordinators in their efforts.In the autumn of 2013 they plan to focus on target hardening and technical security. 2013-05-22T11:34:50+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/master_locksmith_association_expo_exhibition/ MLA Expo is the largest locksmithing and physical security related exhibition in the UK. If you want to know what the latest security products are, then you mustn’t miss this show. Taking place at the Telford International Centre from the 13th to the 15th of September 2013, the show promises to be an excellent mix of stands, training and networking. There’s even a prize draw for visitors! For more information about the exhibition, you can visit the Expo website:www.locksmiths.co.uk/expo-2013/To register to attend the exhibition, please visit: www.onlineregistration.co.uk/cgi-bin/reg.pl?showdir=mla/13&formname=reg 2013-05-21T12:45:53+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/this_summer_spells_increased_risk_of_subsidence1/ After two consecutive wet summers, the warm dry conditions predicted this summer mean it is likely that subsidence claims will increase significantly. Although severe cases of subsidence are relatively rare, homes in the South East of England are particularly at risk due to a combination of slightly warmer temperatures and clay based soil.Subsidence occurs when the ground sinks or falls, and this can happen when clay in soils change size and proportion. In severe cases, subsidence can cause serious structural damage, and can even completely destroy a property. As global warming continues, the problem is expected to become even more prevalent. What can you do to reduce the chance of subsidence claims?Before buying a property, homeowners should check historic records for information on mining activity. Around 15 per cent of subsidence claims are caused by previous mining activity beneath a property, so don’t skimp on these important searches.A survey of the property’s drainage can identify the risk of water leaking into the soil beneath. The local Water Authority can carry out checks on the incoming water main. Fifteen per cent of subsidence claims are caused by water washing away some of the finer soil in the ground.Tall trees close to the house can be bad news, particularly for homes built on clay subsoil. They take water out from the ground and cause it to shrink and move. Tree removal solves 84 per cent of tree-related subsidence claims. If tree removal is not possible, regular maintenance may be the next best thing.At Towergate Insurance we can offer a policy that protects against the risk of subsidence. Call our home insurance team on 0844 346 3253 today.Article courtesy of Towergate Insurance 2013-05-21T12:36:47+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/invitation_to_leicestershire_neighbourhood_watch_2013_agm/ Dear Neighbourhood Watch members.On behalf of the Chair of Leicestershire Neighbourhood Watch Association (LNWA), Bill Wright, we would like to invite you to attend our AGM on Thursday 20th June 2013, at Leicestershire Police Force Headquarters, St Johns, Enderby, LE19 2BX.The event will commence with registration at 6.30pm for a 7pm start. Draft minutes of the 2012 AGM are available at : http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/get_involved/in_the_regions/east_midlands/resources_em/?entry_id=3175Guest speakers on the evening will include the PCC Sir Clive Loader and the Chair of the national Neighbourhood & Home Watch Network (NHWN) Mr Jim Maddan.We will also be presenting the Leicestershire Police Neighbourhood Watch Awards for 2013 following the AGM.Please register your name (and scheme area) if you wish to attend, and the number of seats required for you and your members by 17th June to Marion Lewis on nhwn.1@btinternet.com Alternatively you can call us on 0116 2483871 to leave a voice message. An agenda will be sent out nearer the date.We are seeking members to join the committee of the LNWA, the official police recognised charity representing all registered NHW schemes across Leicestershire. If you are interested, please download a nomination form to represent the members of Neighbourhood Watch from your local policing unit area on the LNWA committee. Please forward the completed form to us at nhwn.1@btinternet.com .Download a 2013 LNWA Nomination Form here : http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/get_involved/in_the_regions/east_midlands/resources_em/?entry_id=3176We look forward to meeting members old and new on the evening.RegardsMarion Lewis OBEForce Lead Volunteer for Neighbourhood Watch 2013-05-21T10:46:44+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/community_leaders_sought_to_join_scheme/ The search is on for new Neighbourhood Watch leaders to help keep a North Tyneside town a safe place to live and work.Officers from the Whitley Bay neighbourhood policing team are urging people who have an interest in the community and keeping their area safe to come forward to represent their local Neighbourhood Watch scheme.Pc Paul McKenzie has issued the plea to residents to help keep the coastal town and its surrounding areas a safe and pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy.Pc McKenzie said: “This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who has an interest in their neighbourhood and has a good sense of community spirit to come forward and help do their part.“Being part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme can help deter criminals and prevent anti-social behaviour.“It is an excellent way to get involved with your community.”For more information about joining a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in the area , contact the Whitley Bay neighbourhood policing team on 101 ext 69191 or email whitleybay.npt@northumbria.pnn.police.uk 2013-05-21T10:12:23+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/three_worcestershire_residents_awarded_british_empire_medals/ Three Worcestershire residents have been presented with British Empire Medals for dedicated work within their communities.Charlie Nelson from Bromsgrove and Graham Houghton and Mandy Painter, both from Worcester, were awarded the honour by the Queen's Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire at a ceremony held at the Guildhall in Worcester.The British Empire Medal was revived in 2012 for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Year after it was disbanded in 1993.For over 30 years Charlie Nelson has led, coordinated and organised the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme at Woodrush High School. During this time, his tireless support of young people in the development of their skills, aptitudes and characteristics, in addition to his full-time role as a Teacher of Humanities and vocational course coordinator, has been deemed commendable. Charlie has spent thousands of hours helping students achieve the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Bronze, Silver and Gold level and has done this by organising training in skills such as First Aid and map reading. In addition, he has led countless hiking and camping expeditions.Mandy Painter is dedicated to fundraising for The Starlight Children's Foundation, which brightens the lives of seriously ill children. In 2005 her son, Josh, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Sadly, Josh lost his battle with cancer and passed away in 2006, but his wish was for other children to experience the joy that Starlight brings, and in the last five years Mandy has shown incredible determination in raising over £40,000 in sponsored walks and other fundraising events. Mandy's efforts have also been highlighted on national television, which focussed on the work of Starlight. She now acts as an Ambassador for Starlight at official functions, and her prolific fundraising continues to make a very significant difference to young children and their families.Graham Houghton has been a dedicated member of Neighbourhood Watch over many years, and has been a role model to many working in the community safety field. Graham has been an exceptional scheme co-ordinator, introducing CCTV into his area of Worcester, and he has spent many hours a day calling door-to-door recruiting new members, offering crime reduction advice and distributing crime prevention materials to hundreds of homes and businesses. Many local partners have said that without Graham's commitment to Neighbourhood Watch, many more families and individuals would have been victims of crime. He is also a dedicated member of the Safer Worcester Partnership and provides a wealth of experience, expertise and knowledge to the community safety programme. It has been commented that "if every community had a 'man like him', the world would be a safer place to live."Patrick Holcroft, Lord Lieutenant for Worcestershire, said: "To receive a British Empire Award is an incredible achievement and I'd like to congratulate Charlie, Mandy and Graham for their dedicated work and commitment over many years."Article courtesy of Worcestershire.gov.uk 2013-05-21T08:51:37+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/hf_mayor_receives_award_she_thought_she_would_be_presenting/ The mayor of Hammersmith and Fulham has received a trophy for her dedication to tackling crime in the borough.Councillor Belinda Donovan was shocked to receive the Douglas Hurd Cup that she thought she would be presenting last week.Hammersmith and Fulham Neighbourhood Watch usually award the trophy to the group of volunteer co-ordinators who lead the battle against crime in their streets. But chairman David Millar decided Ms Donovan deserved the accolade all to herself.He said: "This year we wanted the cup to go to an individual who I believe has contributed more to the development of Neighbourhood Watch than anybody else. Councillor Donovan has influenced many people to start their very own street watch. She represents and embodies as a person, beyond all, Neighbourhood Watch."Chief Superintendent Lucy D’Orsi of Hammersmith and Fulham Police urged more people to join Neighbourhood Watch schemes which she says are vital in solving crime.She said: "In my utopia, I would like to see a Neighbourhood Watch in every street – that would be tremendous."Speaking at the scheme’s annual general meeting, she praised the efforts of the borough’s 220 co-ordinators representing 261 streets, adding: “I’m very proud of the achievement working with Neighbourhood Watch and neighbourhoods to make it the safest borough in London. It’s the second consecutive year we’ve had crime reduction in this borough.“Neighbourhood Watch is the eyes and ears in the community. You are there to help us stop crime and stop that person from being a victim of crime. You are absolutely critical to us. We cannot solve crimes without your help in the local community.”Neighbourhood Watch chairman David Millar again raised concerns about slimming down Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNTs) from one sergeant, two PCs and two PCSOs, to just one dedicated named PC and PCSO per ward. It is being driven by a need to save £500million across the Met by 2015. About 90 officers and five sergeants will be redeployed in a wider SNT pool to create a more flexible model which allows officers to follow crime patterns.Mr Millar accepted the changes were out of the hands of H&F Police. He criticised the lack of detail in the consultation and urged Met Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, at a poorly attended meeting last week, to better outline the changes, which he agreed to by the end of June.The borough commander said if she could, she would put more money into SNTs.“I wanted to localise policing,” Ms D’Orsi said. “I think to bring a totality of policing to the neighbourhood, I would like to see each crime investigated by your SNT rather than a central team. You know your neighbourhood officers and inspectors. I would bring it right down to neighbourhood level,” But she said it was imperative to modernise policing and better utilise technology, saying ‘more boots on the beat’ would help tackle crime.Visit www.hfnhw.org.uk for more Neighbourhood Watch information.Article courtesy of Fulham Chronicle 2013-05-21T07:55:00+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/acpo_citizens_in_policing/ The ACPO Citizens in Policing Portfolio, now Police Service Citizens in Policing Portfolio, has been working with the College of Policing and NAVCA to deliver a number of Roadshows to Police Forces across the country. The aim of these have been to assist in broadening staff thinking around the use of enthusiastic and skilled citizens in Volunteer roles that add value to policing, as well as developing links with groups in the voluntary sector who can contribute towards policing objectives. Neighbourhood and Home Watch has been a frequent topic for discussion in terms of both being a prolific source for volunteers, but also as an active organisation that can assist policing. The conversations have often led us to think, are we making the most of the potential for active partnerships between Watches and the Police? I think it is fair to say in many cases ‘no’ – but we are at an exciting point in many Forces Citizens in Policing Programmes; the Roadshows have illustrated that eyes are opening to opportunities that exist within the Voluntary and Community Sector. It follows that now is the time to build on this enthusiasm. Often the only limitation to what we put into practice is our reliance on what has always been; the experience of the Roadshows has shown that broad, challenging thinking can achieve massive steps forward for both volunteers and the Police. So where does NHW sit with this? At the heart of it. We would encourage a proactive, resourceful, innovative approach to active citizenship; often our most qualified individuals in all these areas come from Watches, our job is to open the door to you. The next steps for the portfolio is to look at how to provide a more comprehensive package of support, from start to finish, that enables and empowers any Citizen with the skills and enthusiasm to contribute towards their local policing objectives. The next step to achieving this will be in the form of our Continuous Improvement Project. Article courtesy of PS Lee Kerslake, Staff Officer, Police Service Citizens in Policing Portfolio 2013-05-20T12:17:04+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/crime_fighters_battle_for_prestigious_awards_during_neighbourhood_and_home/ To recognise the outstanding work carried out by Neighbourhood and Home Watch members across England and Wales, this year’s National Neighbourhood and Home Watch Week, due to take place between the 15th and 23rd June, will celebrate the very best of volunteering. To kick start celebrations, we will be hosting our inaugural National Neighbourhood and Home Watch Awards on the 18th June, which will see 40 elite crime fighters, battle it out to win one of ten categories. The awards ceremony, which will be hosted by the Minister for Crime and Prevention and Anti-Social Behaviour, Rt. Hon. Jeremy Browne MP, provides a national platform to showcase the excellent examples of best practice, and diverse nature of work carried out by volunteers. Finalists for each of the categories consist of;Partnership working OSCAR Neighbourhood Watch (Derby) Cumbria Neighbourhood Watch Association (Cumbria)Outstanding Achievement (Scheme), sponsored by Avocet Hardware Ushaw Moor Action Group (Durham) Flintshire & Wrexham Watch Association (North Wales)Outstanding Achievement (Coordinator) Elizabeth Clarke (Warwickshire) Maureen Brewer (West Yorkshire)Community Engagement Jean Planitzer, The Maltings Neighbourhood Watch (West Yorkshire) Hazel Durn, Bristol Neighbourhood Watch Network (Avon and Somerset)National Database (Neighbourhood Alert), sponsored by VISAV Pat Farish & Pauline Finlayson, Carlisle (Cumbria) Gill Riley, Ilkeston & District Neighbourhood Watch Support Group (Derbyshire)Innovation, sponsored by Yale Harborough Be Safe, Harborough District NHW Association (Leicestershire) Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Search Teams (Sussex)Environmental Improvement Liz Kew, Bristol Neighbourhood Watch Network (Avon and Somerset) Dennis Cowen, Park Street Neighbourhood Watch (Hertfordshire)Community Advocacy, sponsored by The CSP Academy James Allen, Darlington Neighbourhood Watch Association (Durham) Val McPherson, Thames Valley Neighbourhood Watch Association (Thames Valley)Inspiring Youth Crawley Neighbourhood Watch Association (Sussex) Kate Vaughan-Newton, Arnold Association of Neighbourhood Watch Schemes (Nottingham)Safer Neighbourhoods New Moston Home Watch Association (Manchester) Alan Thornton, Torbay Neighbourhood Watch Feel Safe Scheme (Devon and Cornwall)Winners, to be announced on the day, will be presented with a prestigious crystal trophy and framed certificate. Certificates will also be issued to runners up for the award categories (framed), and those shortlisted by the regions. For more information about the event, please click here. If you would like your Neighbourhood and Home Watch Week event to be featured on our national website, please send details to enquiries@ourwatch.org.uk, including event details, times, dates and locations. Post event details are also welcome alongside supporting photographs. 2013-05-20T10:43:41+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/keep_burglars_at_bay/ Burglary committed by snapping euro cylinder locks, which are fitted as standard in all uPVC and other double-glazed doors, is on the increase. In December 2012 West Yorkshire Police revealed that 27 per cent of burglaries in the region had been committed by criminals using this technique.Michael Tuck, managing director of new Neighbourhood Watch sponsor Avocet Hardware, explains the problem: “The euro cylinder lock has a design flaw that enables it to be snapped, and the locking mechanism breached, using simple DIY tools in just a matter of seconds.”“Thankfully there is a solution and it’s a simple one – replace the lock with a Snap Secure euro cylinder door lock, which has been designed and developed specifically to counter lock snapping.”Avocet’s own ABS Snap Secure lock features a patented system that guarantees a total barrier against forced entry even if the lock is snapped. And what’s more it also allows the door to still be opened and locked using the key from the inside.It is one of the first locks of its type to be accredited to the new British Standard TS007 (three stars), is the only retro-fit euro cylinder that has passed the new SS312 Sold Secure Diamond standard, and is approved by Secured by Design.The British Standard was developed by the Door & Hardware Federation, the Glass & Glazing Federation and the British Standards Institute in response to the rise in lock snapping, while SS312 Sold Secure Diamond is a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) accreditation.“Now that the extent of the lock snapping problem is gaining wider recognition and solutions like ours are being developed, our challenge is to persuade people to protect their homes by changing their locks as a precautionary measure,” continued Michael.“And this is the key reason we have become a Neighbourhood Watch sponsor. We want to alert those most interested and active in crime prevention of the nature and rising frequency of the problem, without scaremongering, and work with them to stamp out lock snapping.” Avocet Hardware is the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network’s new primary sponsor for security products. More information about its ABS locks can be found at www.homesecurityandsafety.co.uk. Alternatively call 01484 725725.Article courtesy of Avocet Hardware 2013-05-20T10:11:22+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/this_summer_spells_increased_risk_of_subsidence/ After two consecutive wet summers, the warm dry conditions predicted this summer mean it is likely that subsidence claims will increase significantly. Although severe cases of subsidence are relatively rare, homes in the South East of England are particularly at risk due to a combination of slightly warmer temperatures and clay based soil.Subsidence occurs when the ground sinks or falls, and this can happen when clay in soils change size and proportion. In severe cases, subsidence can cause serious structural damage, and can even completely destroy a property. As global warming continues, the problem is expected to become even more prevalent. What can you do to reduce the chance of subsidence claims?Before buying a property, homeowners should check historic records for information on mining activity. Around 15 per cent of subsidence claims are caused by previous mining activity beneath a property, so don't skimp on these important searches. A survey of the property’s drainage can identify the risk of water leaking into the soil beneath. The local Water Authority can carry out checks on the incoming water main. Fifteen per cent of subsidence claims are caused by water washing away some of the finer soil in the ground.Tall trees close to the house can be bad news, particularly for homes built on clay subsoil. They take water out from the ground and cause it to shrink and move. Tree removal solves 84 per cent of tree-related subsidence claims. If tree removal is not possible, regular maintenance may be the next best thing.At Towergate Insurance we can offer a policy that protects against the risk of subsidence. Call our home insurance team on 0844 346 3253 today.Article courtesy of Towergate Insurance 2013-05-20T09:54:20+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/message_from_the_chair_june_2013/ No organisation can exist without its supporters and Neighbourhood and Home Watch is no exception. It gives me great pleasure to announce that three very high profile supporters of Neighbourhood Watch have agreed to become Patrons of the network.Ian, Lord Blair of Boughton, Kt, QPM, MA (Oxon) served (as Sir Ian Blair) as the 24th Commissioner of London’s Metropolitan Police (Scotland Yard) from 2005 until the end of 2008. He was a police officer for more than 34 years and held a number of senior positions, including serving as Chief Constable of Surrey Police from 1998 to 2000 and as the Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police from 2000 to 2005.Peter James is one of the UK’s most treasured crime and thriller novelists. He is also a film director and award winning crime writer, having created an iconic modern day detective, Superintendent Roy Grace, based in Brighton. Peter is actively involved with various organisations in Sussex, including being a Patron of Sussex Crimestoppers Trust.Alec Shelbrooke MP was elected as the Member of Parliament for Elmet & Rothwell in May 2010 with a majority of 4521 votes. Living in the heart of the constituency allows Alec to stay in touch with the issues that really matter to his constituents. He has kindly agreed to represent the views of Neighbourhood and Home Watch in the House of Commons.To have these high profile Neighbourhood Watch supporters in a wide variety of roles is a great honour and we look forward to working closely with them in the months and years ahead. You can read their full biographies at: www.ourwatch.org.uk/about_us/our_patrons/. 2013-05-20T09:49:11+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/solihull_police_praise_role_of_crime_fighting_volunteers/ SOLIHULL police has paid tribute to the role played by neighbourhood watch in helping officers to reduce crime across the borough.To mark their achievements Chief Superintendent Sally Bourner and Police and Crime Commissioner Bob Jones invited over 80 NHW coordinators to join them and discuss the future role of the scheme.After forming over 30 years ago the scheme has shaken off the stigma of being a group of 'curtain twitchers.' And in the 21st century members still provide a vital link between officers and their local communities.Commenting on the event Chief Inspector Phil Healy said: "The world has changed significantly in the last 30 years and the police face different challenges than it did back in the 1980s. But throughout this time the support of volunteers has been resolute and helps us to continue to make Solihull safer."It cannot be underestimated the role the public can play in helping us to fight crime. On a daily basis people following simple safety advice and reporting suspicious activity help officers to prevent crime and make arrests."I'd encourage everyone to contact their local policing team and find out how they can help us carry on this legacy."To find out more about neighbourhood watch visit http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/ or call 101 to speak to officers from your local policing team.Story by West Midlands Police 2013-05-20T08:19:30+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/new_promotional_vehicle_heads_for_summer_events/ Following the success of a fully liveried tractor, used to promote crime reduction messages at events, Suffolk Constabulary have again teamed up with the local Ernest Doe branch at Marlesford to take a new vehicle on tour in 2013.After a year of being used at events including the Suffolk Show and rural fairs across the county the tractor has now been returned, to be replaced with a fully-liveried all-terrain vehicle.Like the tractor, the new vehicle will not be used for patrols but is purely promotional, and has been provided free of charge by Ernest Doe with the aim of attracting public attention at shows and events so important messages about crime reduction can be highlighted.The company have provided Suffolk Constabulary with a Cushman 1600XD-R All-Terrain Vehicle produced by Ransomes Jacobsen to assist in raising the profile of steps that can be taken to prevent rural crime within the county.The liveried vehicle with blue flashing lights will act as a hook to attract the attention of members of the public at trade shows, county fairs, farmers markets and rural events throughout 2013.The vehicle will help raise awareness of issues around metal, diesel and equipment thefts as well as burglaries, by providing an opportunity to engage with residents to make sure everything possible is being done to reduce rural crime and lower the chances of individuals and landowners becoming victims of offences.Paul Marshall, Deputy Chief Constable for Suffolk, said; “Officers cannot tackle rural crime without the cooperation and support of communities and businesses. Policing in rural areas brings some very specific and unique challenges, with the distances involved and the isolated nature of some communities sometimes leading to a sense of vulnerability and a heightened fear of crime.”Chris Chilvers, Branch Manager Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd (Marlesford), said; “This project gives a family owned agricultural machinery dealership the opportunity to be a partner in helping support police and communities and highlight issues around crime in rural areas, together with promoting what crime prevention measures can be implemented. Agricultural machinery has become a target for organised crime in recent years, which we are making customers aware of while educating on products that can help reduce the chance of items being stolen.”Police are also promoting the booklet ‘Shutting the gate on rural crime’ designed to give advice to land and home owners on a whole range of measures that can be taken to protect property in rural locations.This includes advice on general security, as well as information on how to deter fly tipping, illegal offroading, metal and diesel thefts, and details of conservation and wildlife legislation. The booklet also carries useful contact information for agencies including police, fire, the Environment Agency, Natural England and wildlife groups. 2013-05-20T07:55:11+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/otley_neighbourhood_watch_group_needs_volunteers/ Otley’s “irreplaceable” Neighbourhood Watch is urgently appealing for new volunteers to help it keep going. The group, which works closely with the Neighbourhood Policing Team on fighting crime, has seen its committee membership dwindle to a point where it now fears it may be forced to fold. There are currently only four people running the scheme, with two of those – Adele Carr and Pauline Hanson – due to step down over the next ten months. Mrs Hanson said: "We’re down to four committee members and it could soon be down to just two. "So if we don't get more people soon we might have to fold.” Article courtesy of The Telegraph and Argus 2013-05-20T07:49:59+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/avon_and_somerset_police_launch_video/ Rogue Trader Week video launchedAdded: 17/05/2013Avon and Somerset police are launching a new DVD to educate potential victims of doorstep crime when we go out to talk to older people in our communities. The video, which shows our officers in action during our Rogue Trader Week in April, features the story of distraction burglary victim Ivor Bwye as well as well as catching up with Police Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens at an older people's lunch event.In the video John Clifford, who works for the older people's charity WRVS, goes on a ride-along in Avon and Somerset to take a look at we are doing to tackle rogue trading and distraction burglary.John said: "While these crimes are not high in number they really target and prey on older and more vulnerable people. "It's been good to see how we can perhaps make some changes and how the police in Avon and Somerset are really honing in on this issue to reduce that number still further."The video aims to spread our message about what doorstep crimes like rogue trading and distraction burglary involve and how to avoid becoming a victim. Police Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens has made it a priority, as part of her Police and Crime Plan, to ensure we are doing everything we can to tackle burglary and prevent people from becoming victims. Sue said: "Distraction burglaries in Avon and Somerset are rare with only 141 cases reported last year but this is 141 cases too many and the impact on the daily lives of vulnerable victims is potentially huge. "There is much we can do to prevent people becoming the victims of doorstep crime and working in partnership we are hopefully raising awareness and increasing vigilance within communities." During Rogue Trader Week 2013 Avon and Somerset Police made 21 arrests This included one man who was part of a door-to door selling team from outside the city, who was arrested for being in possession of tools to commit fraud along with cash and cheques. Two people were also arrested at a scrap yard because it was believed they were handling stolen goods. Several rogue traders were arrested for fraud offences related to guttering, driveways and building work. Two people were arrested for theft of lead and another man was arrested for handling a stolen trailer and mini-digger.More than 1,000 vehicles were also stop-checked; 10 Fixed Penalty notices wereissued; 11 Traffic Summons were given out, five Waste Carrier Licence offences were found; three vehicles were towed for having no insurance; five vehicles seizedfor illegally using Red Diesel and 15 Trading Standards Notices issued. Neighbourhood officers visited previous victims and potentially vulnerable people.Banks were also visited and given a DVD providing advice to banks tellers on how to spot and prevent suspicious transactions, for example, victims being pressured to withdraw unusually large amounts of money. Numerous presentations, plays and stands were set up and even a poster designing competition in schools that reached over 4,000 children.We were supported by our colleagues in Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, VOSA, Trading Standards, Department for Work and Pensions, the Environment Agency, SOCA, RSPCA and Wiltshire Farm Foods (Meal deliveries). 2013-05-17T17:18:00+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/people_encouraged_to_report_homophobic_hate_crime/ IDAHO day - Victims of homophobic hate crime urged to come forwardAdded: 17/05/2013As part of an international day against homophobia police are urging anyone who has been a victim of homophobic hate-crime to come forward and report it.The International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO) is a day that aims to raise awareness of the issues that the gay community often face and challenge homophobic attitudes.Superintendent Andy Williams said: "We know that homophobic hate-crime often goes unreported and we want to encourage anyone who has been a victim to come forward and report it to us."Nobody should ever be targeted because of their sexuality and today we want to make it clear that we will do everything we can to bring the perpetrators to justice . . . but we can only do that if people have the courage and the confidence to come forward and report it to us."Homophobic hate crime can be anything from name-calling through to harassment, sexual and physical assaults and in the worst case scenario even murder.Police Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: "Being targeted because of your sexuality is unacceptable and intolerable. "I would advise anyone that is affected by this crime not to endure this suffering alone and by coming forward you will also be helping others who have not yet found the confidence to report it for themselves. "If you have been a victim of homophobic or transphobic hate-crime report it to the police and with the support of other agencies they will be there to help you."A report by Stonewall (the charity which campaigns for equal gay rights in the UK) suggested that three quarters of those that had experienced homophobic hate crime didn't report it to the police thinking that nothing would be done.Superintendent Williams said: "We really want to challenge the view that nothing will be done. We will do everything in our power to put a stop to this type of crime but we can only do it in conjunction with the gay community."If you have been a victim of a hate crime and would like to report it to the police contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or contact anti-homophobic hate crime charity EACH visit their website www.eachaction.org.uk 2013-05-17T17:12:47+00:00 http://www.ourwatch.org.uk/news_and_events/news/have_you_been_helped_by_the_kindness_of_a_stranger/ Has an anonymous Good Samaritan rescued you by making a split second decision that has made the difference between life and death?Or have you been the passerby who has stepped in to help a stranger in an emergency?In an inspirational new series, The Garden Productions would like to tell the amazing stories of people who have either been helped by a stranger, or people who have helped a stranger in an emergency as they are keen to highlight the extraordinary bravery and kindness of individuals who have become someone’s anonymous hero in an unexpected circumstance. If you would welcome the opportunity to tell your story or want any more information about the series, please contact The Garden Productions on:Email: takepart@thegardenproductions.tvCall: 0207 620 6732 The closing date is 1st July 2013.Please note: The Garden Productions have experience in making sensitive documentaries where it is incredibly important to have a high regard for the care of those taking part. They were founded by the team who made the BAFTA award-winning Channel 4 series 'One Born Every Minute', and more recently made the RTS award-winning series '24 Hours in A&E.' They also made the BBC2 series 'Inside Claridge's' and the highly acclaimed 'Keeping Britain Alive: The NHS in a Day', which is currently being broadcast on BBC2. 2013-05-16T10:26:42+00:00