Community Heroes: Neighbourhood Watch
Some of the secret community heroes when it comes to tackling anti-social behaviour are the Neighbourhood Watch volunteers across the country. With over 65,000 active volunteers across England and Wales, Neighbourhood Watch volunteers have been making a difference to communities for over 40 years.
The Neighbourhood Watch takes on a proactive role in trying to prevent anti-social behaviour and crimes from occurring in the local area. Not only that, but they actively promote inclusion and reach out to neighbours to reduce loneliness. It is well known that connected communities are more resilient, and residents feel safer as a result.
Loneliness can increase older people’s risk to falling victim to scams, as the prospect of making conversation with another person can make someone more willing to open the door to a stranger, or engage in a phone conversation with an unknown caller, or respond to emails or letters. Professional scammers are skilled at developing relationships with their targets, and the lonely householder begins to feel that a genuine relationship is building. Lonely people also have fewer opportunities to meet with others and discuss finances and to explore with someone they trust whether an offer or relationship is genuine.
People join Neighbourhood Watch for many different reasons, whether it is to improve safety around their home or to become part of a group and meet new people. It is widely regarded that being part of Neighbourhood Watch can:
- Reduce/prevent local crime and disorder
- Reduce fear of crime
- Address issues relating to antisocial 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 the quality of life and the local environment