Neighbourhood Watch recognised with funding boost
Thursday 24th September 2020
Neighbourhood Watch groups (NHW) across the county are to receive a funding boost thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and West Yorkshire Police.
The PCC, Mark Burns-Williamson has agreed a £10,000 support package using money from his Community Safety Fund reserve set aside to help support such activity.
The funding will go to Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators across West Yorkshire and can be used for:
- NHW signs
- New member welcome packs
- Local workshops
- Crime prevention information such as toolkits and advice cards
- Property marking tools
Mark Burns-Williamson OBE, West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), said: “It’s really important to me that we recognise the significant contribution to community safety by Neighbourhood Watch groups, and I am very pleased to be able to distribute this extra funding during these difficult times.
“This year also saw the 35th anniversary of NHW in West Yorkshire and at the time I promised to look at what more support I could offer, and this is about delivering on that commitment in supporting many dedicated NHW volunteers.
“During the unprecedented fallout of Covid-19 issues, Neighbourhood Watch has taken on an even greater role, supporting people who found themselves isolated from friends and family. They have a critical part in helping to bring communities together and prevent crime, so it’s doubly important that we provide extra support to them in order for this good work to continue.
“An area I am keen to highlight is increasing schemes that involve younger people and ensuring some of our most vulnerable communities are supported to come together. But most of all, a big thank you to our great NHW coordinators and every single person connected to NHW for all the work they are doing to make a real difference in our communities when we need to look out for one another more than ever.”
Dawn Wilkinson, West Yorkshire Police Crime Prevention Lead, said: “We welcome the support of the Police and Crime Commissioner in providing this funding package, which will enable us to support our current and future members.
“The Neighbourhood Watch scheme continues to grow in West Yorkshire, helping police and partners to identify and safeguard our most vulnerable people. This not only helps to increase confidence and personal safety locally, but also makes for stronger and more cohesive communities.”
To find out more about Neighbourhood Watch, including how to join or start a scheme visit https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/our-services/crime-prevention/neighbourhood-watch
Neighbourhood Watch Groups can also apply for funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Communities Fund. The fund is open for applications until 12 noon (mid-day) on Friday 16th October 2020 with grants of up to £6000 available. To find our more visit https://www.westyorkshire-pcc.gov.uk/news-events/news/pccs-ps140000-safer-communities-fund-opens-applications
