Neighbourhood Watch began life in the UK over 40 years ago in response to rising crime, but today, as times change, it covers all aspects of keeping safe.
Our main aims are to prevent crime, reduce the fear of crime, and improve safety. That means that whilst combating crime remains our core aim, whether it be traditional crime or new and emerging trends, we also help out in other important ways that help protect our communities, such as during and after emergencies.
Neighbourhood Watch promotes good citizenship and greater public awareness through Neighbourhood Watch groups, increases public participation in the prevention and detection of crime and anti-social behaviour, reduces the fear of crime, improves police/community liaison and increases public and community safety.
The modern Neighbourhood Watch is about making sure that no one has to feel afraid, vulnerable or isolated in the place where they live. It’s about people looking out for each other, crossing barriers of age, race and background to create strong, cohesive communities that benefit everyone.
Neighbourhood Watch acts as the eyes and ears of the community. As a result, it has been shown that Neighbourhood Watch areas are far less likely to be targeted by criminals.
“Crime cannot flourish in a community that cares.“