Support for Neighbourhood Watch Week
17 June 2019
West Yorkshire Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner are showing their support for Neighbourhood Watch Week. The week celebrates the incredible work volunteers contribute to their communities across the country including in West Yorkshire.
Under the theme of #MoreThanYouExpect the work in keeping communities safe done by the volunteers will be recognised in different themes each day.
ACC Catherine Hankinson of West Yorkshire Police, said: "The volunteers who dedicate their time to Neighbourhood Watch schemes provide a vital service in helping to keep the communities of West Yorkshire safe.
"It is important to recognise the contribution they make and that is what Neighbourhood Watch Week is about.
"I want to say a big thank you to everyone who gives up their time in this way."
Mark Burns-Williamson, West Yorkshire's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), said: "I want to say a big thank you to everyone that's part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, their hard work really does help to keep our communities safe and feeling safe.
"Neighbourhood Watch is a vital partner and an important resource in the prevention of crime. They assist our communities to take practical steps to help reduce the opportunity for crime and criminals to operate. They also keep an eye out for those who may be more vulnerable and have a key role in community spirit and cohesion.
"I will continue to work with Neighbourhood Watch to increase the number of groups as well as developing their support and interaction with West Yorkshire Police, it was great to meet and host a session for many of our NW Co-ordinators at our Carr Gate training centre at the weekend to say thank you in person."
For more information about Neighbourhood Watch Schemes and how to join visit: https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/our-services/neighbourhood-watch
The five themed videos to be released every day from Monday to Friday are:
- A Minute on a Monday introduction from ACC Catherine Hankinson
- Jayne Pascoe - Head of Partnerships and Projects - National Neighbourhood Watch
- West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson praising the work of Neighbourhood Watch schemes
- Senior Contact Manager Tom Donohoe, Senior Contact Manager for the Force also praises the work of those involved in Neighbourhood Watch schemes - especially at a time of unprecedented demand.
- Force Crime Prevention Officer, Chris Joyce rounds week up and explains how you can get involved in a scheme.
The benefits of Neighbourhood Watch schemes include:
- Reduce / prevent local crime and disorder
- Reduce fear of crime
- Address issues relating to anti social behaviour
- Create safer neighbourhoods
- Build community spirit and cohesion
- Reassure members of the public
- Enhance partnership working with other community groups
- Assist in the detection and apprehension of criminals through members providing information to the police
- Improve quality of life and the local environment