Useful help and information on how to start a neighbourhood watch
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It is relatively easy to start up a neighbourhood watch group and we know that they can be very effective at dealing with local issues such as crime, however the real challenge is sustaining the group after it has achieved its initial objectives. Beith Orr Park Neighbourhood Watch is a shining example of ‘your watch, your way’ and what can be achieved when communities work collectively.
An older man had undergone major surgery for a head injury and was, as a result, very vulnerable. He would respond to anyone who called regardless of whether they wanted information or money. Inevitably he became the target of scam calls, losing over £1000 in under a fortnight.
Neighbourhood Watch is a community led initiative to bring local people together to address crime and other community safety issues. Neighbourhood Watch groups often liaise with the local police, the local authority and other agencies. The concept originated in the United States and was introduced into the UK in the 1980s.
Behind it lies a very simple idea, working together can help to improve your community. Neighbourhood Watches can be large, covering most of the households on an estate, or they might involve just a few houses. They may meet frequently, or keep in touch via e-mail or social media. There really is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to Neighbourhood Watch. Neighbourhood Watch adapts to fit the community it serves. Quite simply it’s “Your Watch, Your Way”
The General Data Protection Regulation, known commonly as GDPR, came into effect as of 25th May 2018. The aim of this legislation is to protect all EU citizens from privacy and data breaches within an increasingly data-driven world. Read the article to find out more and how it affects Neighbourhood Watch in Scotland.
Scottish Government’s Building Safer Communities Programme (BSC) is a collaborative partnership with local and national partners and communities, including Neighbourhood Watch Scotland, to drive forward and champion Community Safety.
Still going strong!
by Jean Brown, Association Secretary
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