Neighbourhood Watch volunteers celebrated at annual conference
Mon, September 30, 2019
Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership held its annual Neighbourhood Watch conference in the Royal Court Hotel, Portrush on September 26th.
Neighbourhood Watch, a partnership between local communities, the Police and PCSPs, aims to help people protect themselves and their property and reduce the fear of crime. Schemes create effective communication between residents and the police, with local co-ordinators acting as a primary point of contact. This year’s event recognised a number of people who have dedicated years of voluntary service.
Guest speakers at this year’s event included the Crimestoppers manager who highlighted the role it plays and a representative from PSNI cybercrime unit who spoke about how criminals operate online, how to recognise cyber security weaknesses and how to spot a scam.
Opening the event, the Chair of Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP, Alderman George Duddy said: “Neighbourhood Watch is an important initiative that delivers greater vigilance in communities and helps residents to protect themselves, their homes and their properties.
“It is of huge benefit to our elderly neighbours, helping to reduce their fear of crime while increasing community spirit. It is open to everyone and is simple to join and I would encourage you to spread the word and hopefully inspire further schemes throughout the Borough.”
Speaking at the conference Chief Inspector Ian Magee said:
“Neighbourhood Watch schemes play a vital role across the Causeway Coast and Glens area. They create a greater sense of community and help to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. It is great to see so many residents taking an active part in tackling local issues and building relationships with local officers.”
During the event, 31 Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators were recognised for their outstanding contribution and service to the Neighbourhood Watch programme. Volunteers with over 5 and over 10 years of service were presented with a range of awards including certificates of appreciation.
Alderman Duddy added: “Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators are dedicated community members who volunteer their time to support their schemes by attending meetings, passing on crime prevention information and delivering newsletters. Without them, the Neighbourhood Watch network would simply not exist.
“This dedication and community spirit has contributed to increased vigilance and crime prevention practices which we hope will help ensure Causeway Coast and Glens remains one of the safest areas to live, work and visit.”
In the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, there are currently 55 schemes covering over 4500 households.
If you are interested in setting up a scheme or if you would like further information on Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership at any of the following locations:
Ballycastle: Sheskburn House, 7 Mary Street, BT54 6QH Tel: 028 207 62225
Coleraine: Cloonavin, 66 Portstewart Road, BT52 1EY Tel: 028 703 47031
Ballymoney: Riada House, 14 Charles Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6DZ Tel: 028 276 60254
Limavady: Council Offices, 7 Connell Street, Limavady, BT49 0HA Tel: 028 777 60304
