RUNNING A SCHEME

Anybody in a neighbourhood can set up a scheme. The first step is to speak to your neighbours and find out if they are interested in starting a scheme. You will need to think how it is going to be organised. Many schemes work simply by neighbours looking out for one another. You will receive a useful start-up application pack including forms to help determine the level of interest in your area.

A few things to think about

Who will coordinate the scheme?
How will you communicate with members?
Will you produce a newsletter?
Will you want to meet as a group and where?

THE NEXT STEP

The next step is to contact the local Watch Liaison Officer (contact details below). She can advise on the set-up meeting, on personal safety, property security and local initiatives. The scheme is community-led, supported by the police, not run by them. If you have Powerpoint on your computer have a look at this setup presentation that the liaison officer uses.

Who is looking out for your street..?

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Role of a co-ordinator

The role is to set up and maintain a scheme liaising with the Watch Coordinator.

The following activities are some you may want to consider.

• Welcome new residents to the neighbourhood

• Encourage members to be vigilant and report suspicious incidents or incidents

• Publicise the scheme

• Set up email list of your scheme

• Receive crime information from the police and cascade it to members

• Encourage members to put crime prevention measures into practice

• Keep a check on vulnerable residents and provide advice to members about dealing with callers at the door