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Neighbours

‘Everybody needs good neighbours’

Police encourage people to keep an eye on elderly friends and neighbours

RESIDENTS are being asked to keep an eye on elderly friends and neighbours as a way of preventing crime against vulnerable members of the community.

The elderly are sometimes the target of burglars and bogus callers who use a variety of stories to persuade residents to allow them inside their home.

Police believe communities can deter and prevent crime by being vigilant, reporting unusual activity on their street such as suspicious people or vehicles, and checking on their neighbours.

Trevor Timson, Nottinghamshire Police Crime Reduction Manager said: “Everybody needs a good neighbour. It makes you feel reassured that somebody is there who you can rely on and who is close by in case you need assistance.

“Being a good neighbour and keeping a watch on your neighbourhood really can make a difference and could prevent somebody from becoming a victim of theft or burglary.”

The chances of becoming a victim of theft or burglary in Nottinghamshire are continually reducing. From 1st April 2007 to 31th March 2008 there were 980 fewer homes broken into than the previous year and 382 fewer robberies. Burglary in the home have fallen 41 per cent since 2002, but sadly there are still those who particularly exploit the more vulnerable.

Residents can help to keep crime falling by following these simple steps when answering the door to an unexpected visitor.

First, check from a window to see if you know the caller. If you do not recognise the person, shout ‘Who is it?’ and follow the Stop, Chain, Check rule:

STOP            offenders from committing ‘sneak-in’ burglaries by ensuring that doors and windows are kept securely locked.

CHAIN           the door and wait until the callers are verified before allowing them to enter the house.

CHECK          their identity card, take the card and then ring the organisation (not the number on the card the individual gives you as this could also be bogus). If you have the slightest concern DO NOT allow entry into your home.

Bogus Callers can also act as rogue tradespeople, those that pretend to be builders needing to do 'urgent' repairs or 'sales people' offering bargain products.

Mr Timson added: “Genuine company representatives will understand and will not argue with you. They will be able to return at a pre-arranged appointment time when you can have somebody with you if necessary. Remember you have a right to be careful and should never let anyone pressurise you into opening the door.”

Whilst out of the house you can also do a few simple things to stay safe. Stick to busy, well-lit routes when walking and avoid carrying large amounts of cash in your purse or wallet. Always make sure you never carry your bank account pin number with your bank card.

Terry Reynolds, Vice Chairman of Nottswatch, the Nottinghamshire Neighbourhood Watch Association said: “Neighbourhood Watch is one of the biggest and most successful crime prevention initiatives ever because it centres on one of the simplest crime-fighting tactics – people power.”

“Everyone knows that the police fight and prevent crime but communities that pull together can really cut local crime, reassure residents and encourage closer communities.”

John Clarke, Chair of the Police Authority, said: “If we all become more community minded in this way, we will help prevent elderly and vulnerable people from becoming victims of crime.  This in turn, ensures that people feel safer, which helps improve the quality of life in communities.  I would urge people to be vigilant on behalf of their neighbours, turning the other way simply shouldn’t be an option.” 

For details of how to join your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme or start a new one for your area call your local police station or Nottinghamshire Police switchboard on 0115 9670999.

For further crime prevention advice also call your local police station and ask to speak to your local Crime Reduction Manager, or find out more at www.nottinghamshire.police.uk

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