Welcome to 2025 and the first edition of Volunteer News for this year. We are so excited about this year and after a superb yer for Neighbourhood Watch last year, we are buzzing about the future.
This year is the 40th anniversary of Neighbourhood Watch Week, a truly momentous achievement and we have many of our wonderful volunteers that were there during the very first one's and we will be hearing from them nearer to June when our Neihbourhood Watch Week is happening.
Please read through this newsletter and we hope that you feel inspired.
Do you know about the Neighbourhood Watch Knowledge Hub: A Bespoke Resource for Volunteers
We are excited to let you know about the Neighbourhood Watch Knowledge Hub—a bespoke online platform designed specifically for Neighbourhood Watch volunteers. Whether you're new to the role or a seasoned member, the Knowledge Hub is here to support you in making your neighbourhood safer and stronger.
What is the Knowledge Hub?
The Neighbourhood Watch Knowledge Hub is a dedicated space where volunteers can connect, share, and access valuable resources. It’s more than just a website—it’s a community of like-minded individuals working together to keep our areas safe and informed. The platform includes:
Interactive Forums: A place where volunteers can engage in discussions, ask questions, and share experiences. Whether you need advice on handling specific situations or want to learn from others' experiences, the forums are a great way to connect.
Helpful Resources: From downloadable guides to training materials, the Knowledge Hub provides you with a variety of tools to support you in your volunteer role. Whether you're looking for advice on crime prevention, community engagement, or using the latest technology, you'll find everything you need in one place.
Role-specific Help: Need assistance with a particular aspect of your Neighbourhood Watch role? The Knowledge Hub offers targeted advice and resources to make your work easier and more effective.
Why Join the Knowledge Hub?
As a volunteer, your time and efforts are vital in making your neighbourhood a safer place. The Knowledge Hub is designed to ensure you feel supported, equipped, and confident in your role. It’s also an opportunity to connect with other volunteers across the country—learning from each other and building a network of support.
The Knowledge Hub allows you to:
Access up-to-date, relevant information that will help you perform your role with ease.
Join a community of volunteers who share similar goals and challenges.
Get direct help when you need it, whether it’s through the forums or tailored resources.
How to Join
Joining the Knowledge Hub is simple and free. Just visit our website page: www.ourwatch.org.uk/knowledge-hub and sign up today. Whether you're looking for new ideas, need support with a specific issue, or just want to stay informed, the Knowledge Hub is your go-to resource.
We look forward to seeing you on the platform and working together to create safer, stronger communities across the country! Together, we can make a difference.
The Importance of Succession Planning: Future-Proofing Your Neighbourhood Watch Scheme
As a Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator, you play a vital role in your community—helping to keep your neighbourhood safer, fostering connections, and providing invaluable support to residents. However, as with any important role, it’s crucial to think ahead and plan for the future. Succession planning is the key to ensuring your Neighbourhood Watch scheme continues to thrive, even if you’re no longer able to lead it.
Why is Succession Planning Important?
Succession planning is about preparing for the future of your scheme, ensuring that it remains strong and sustainable for the long term. Life is unpredictable, and circumstances may change. Whether due to personal reasons, moving away, or other commitments, there may come a time when you’re no longer able to fulfil your role as Coordinator. Without a clear plan in place, your scheme could face disruption, leaving your community without the support and safety net it has relied upon.
By having a succession plan, you ensure that your scheme continues smoothly, even when leadership changes. It helps safeguard the work you’ve done and ensures that someone is ready and capable to take over the reins when needed. It’s a way to future-proof your Neighbourhood Watch and ensure its ongoing success.
The Importance of Having a Deputy
One of the most effective ways to implement succession planning is by having a deputy in place. A deputy serves as your support and backup—someone who can step in when you’re unavailable, and eventually take over if you need to step down. Having a deputy ensures continuity and reduces the risk of disruption in the leadership of the scheme.
A deputy helps to:
Share the workload: As a Coordinator, you may be juggling multiple tasks. Having a trusted deputy can lighten the load and ensure that responsibilities are managed effectively.
Provide support and mentorship: A deputy is your chance to mentor and pass on knowledge, ensuring that they are fully prepared to take over if needed.
Offer flexibility: Life can be busy, and having a deputy means that the scheme can continue operating smoothly even if you need to take time off or handle other commitments.
How to Get Started with Succession Planning
To help you plan for the future and identify a suitable deputy, we’ve created a Succession Planning Toolkit. This helpful resource offers step-by-step guidance on how to put a succession plan in place, find and train a deputy, and ensure your scheme’s long-term sustainability.
Identifying potential candidates for a deputy role
Preparing and mentoring your deputy for a seamless transition
Building a robust succession plan that aligns with the goals of your scheme
Take Action Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late to think about the future of your scheme. Start planning today to ensure your Neighbourhood Watch scheme continues to flourish for years to come. Having a clear succession plan and a trusted deputy in place will not only protect your community but will also create a legacy of safety and support for future residents.
Together, we can ensure that Neighbourhood Watch remains a vital part of our communities—now and in the future. Start your succession planning today with the toolkit, and help safeguard the future of your scheme.
Neighbourhood Watch Week 2025: A Celebration of Community, Volunteers, and Connection
Mark your calendars! Neighbourhood Watch Week big 40th birthday is fast approaching, taking place from 1st to 7th June 2025. This week-long celebration will kickstart the Month of Community, a nationwide effort to highlight the importance of community spirit and local connections. It’s the perfect time to showcase the incredible work being done by Neighbourhood Watch volunteers and strengthen the bonds within your neighbourhood.
Why Neighbourhood Watch Week Matters
Neighbourhood Watch Week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the valuable contributions that volunteers make to their communities. It’s a time to come together, celebrate your collective achievements, and engage with local residents, partners, and other community groups.
This year, Neighbourhood Watch Week will coincide with Volunteer Week and The Big Lunch, two events that celebrate the power of volunteering and foster community connections. The week provides a unique opportunity to not only celebrate the work of your Neighbourhood Watch group but also to amplify the importance of being connected, safe, and supportive in your community.
Planning for Neighbourhood Watch Week
Now is the perfect time to start thinking about the activities you’d like to plan for Neighbourhood Watch Week 2025. Whether you’re hosting a local event, running a crime prevention workshop, or engaging in a community clean-up, your efforts will contribute to making your neighbourhood a better place to live.
Here are some key steps to help you get started:
1. Brainstorm Ideas
What activities would be most meaningful for your community? Consider events like neighbourhood walks, community safety talks, or even hosting a street party in line with The Big Lunch.
Think about how you can highlight the work of your Neighbourhood Watch group—whether through public displays, social media, or local media coverage.
Explore ways to engage with local partners and community groups. You could invite local police, fire services, or youth groups to participate and collaborate on activities.
2. Involve Volunteers
Neighbourhood Watch Week is a celebration of volunteerism. Get your volunteers involved early in the planning process. Ask for their input, talents, and ideas to make the week as impactful as possible.
Volunteer recognition is key—consider hosting a small appreciation event or publicly acknowledging the hard work of your volunteers.
3. Coordinate with Local Partners
This is the perfect time to strengthen relationships with local partners, such as community groups, schools, businesses, and local government representatives and the police. Working together can bring added value to your events and broaden the reach of your activities.
Think about how you can include them in your activities. For example, ask local shops to sponsor refreshments for a community gathering or invite local experts to run workshops on topics like crime prevention or fire safety.
4. Promote Your Events
Start spreading the word early! Use flyers, social media, local newspapers, and community noticeboards to promote your events. Don’t forget to reach out to local media to help publicize the positive work your Neighbourhood Watch group is doing.
Encourage neighbours to participate in The Big Lunch or any other events you’re hosting to build a sense of unity and collective action.
Celebrating Volunteers and Community Spirit
Neighbourhood Watch Week is a time to express your gratitude to the volunteers who help make your community a safer and more connected place. It’s also a moment to reflect on the difference volunteers make in the lives of others and inspire new people to get involved. By celebrating volunteers and their work, you’re helping to cultivate a sense of pride and ownership in your community.
This year, as Neighbourhood Watch Week kicks off the Month of Community, take full advantage of the opportunity to connect with residents, local organisations, and other volunteers. It’s a time to come together and celebrate all that your community does to stay safe, supported, and engaged.
Get Started Today!
Start planning now for Neighbourhood Watch Week 2025—a week of celebration, action, and connection. Together, we can make this year’s event the best one yet! Share your plans, get involved, and let’s make Neighbourhood Watch Week a true reflection of the strength and spirit of our communities.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we make a difference.
Top 10 Tips for Organising a Local Neighbourhood Watch Event
Organising a Neighbourhood Watch event is a fantastic way to bring your community together, raise awareness about safety, and strengthen local connections. Whether you're planning a small gathering or a larger community event, here are some top tips to help you make your event a success:
1. Define the Purpose and Goals
Start by determining the goal of your event. Are you focusing on crime prevention, community engagement, or volunteer recognition? Clear goals will help guide your planning and ensure the event meets the needs of your community.
Consider the impact you want to achieve—whether it's raising awareness about safety, encouraging more people to join Neighbourhood Watch, or building relationships between local residents.
2. Plan Ahead and Set a Date
Choose a date and time that works for most people in your community. Weekends or evenings are ideal since more people are likely to be available.
Allow plenty of time to plan—at least 4-6 weeks before the event will give you enough time to organise, promote, and gather necessary resources.
3. Choose the Right Location
Pick a location that’s accessible and central for your community. Local parks, community halls, schools, or church halls are great options.
Consider the facilities needed—parking, toilets, seating, and accessibility for those with mobility issues.
4. Engage Local Partners and Volunteers
Involve local partners such as the police, fire department, schools, or local businesses to add value to your event. They can provide expertise, materials, or sponsorship.
Enlist volunteers to help with planning, organising, and managing the event on the day. Their support will ensure things run smoothly.
5. Offer Interactive and Engaging Activities
Plan activities that will engage your audience—interactive workshops on crime prevention, demonstrations on home security, or even fun activities like community clean-ups or local safety walks.
If you're holding a social event, consider hosting a BBQ, potluck, or coffee morning to create a relaxed environment where people can mingle and discuss local issues.
6. Promote Your Event
Start promoting your event early through flyers, social media, and local newspapers. Use community noticeboards and digital platforms like Facebook groups or Nextdoor to spread the word.
Encourage word-of-mouth promotion by asking residents to invite their friends and neighbours.
If possible, engage with local media to highlight your event and the work Neighbourhood Watch is doing in your community.
7. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
Make your event inclusive—ensure that everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, background, or experience.
Have clear signage and introduce yourself and your team to new attendees so they feel comfortable.
Provide refreshments to encourage people to stay and chat, creating an informal, relaxed atmosphere.
8. Highlight the Role of Volunteers
Use the event as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate your volunteers. Consider having a small presentation or certificate ceremony to thank those who have contributed to the success of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
Encourage new people to get involved by explaining the benefits of volunteering and how others can support the initiative.
9. Collect Feedback
Ask for feedback from attendees at the end of the event—what worked well and what could be improved for next time? This will help you refine your future events.
Gather contact information for follow-up, so you can keep people updated on future Neighbourhood Watch activities and encourage ongoing engagement.
10. Have Fun and Celebrate Your Community
Most importantly, have fun! These events are about building relationships, creating a sense of community, and celebrating the work Neighbourhood Watch volunteers are doing to make your area safer.
Don’t forget to take photos and share them on social media to highlight the positive impact of your event and Neighbourhood Watch in your community.
By following these tips, you’ll create an event that brings people together, strengthens bonds within your neighbourhood, and makes a real difference in the safety and wellbeing of your community.
Celebrating Maggie and Her Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in Baildon, West Yorkshire
In the heart of Baildon, West Yorkshire, one local resident is making a remarkable difference to her community—Maggie. Recently featured in a BBC report, Maggie’s Neighbourhood Watch scheme has become a shining example of what dedication, kindness, and a commitment to helping others can achieve.
A True Community Hero
Maggie is often described as an unassuming hero to the people of Baildon. For almost two decades, she has been a driving force in the community, dedicating herself to creating a safer, more connected place for everyone. She and her team of Coordinators make a huge difference to their community.
When Maggie first took on her role as Neighbourhood Watch coordinator, Baildon’s population was just over 8,000. Fast forward almost twenty years, and the community has grown to nearly 20,000 people. Throughout this growth, Maggie has continued to provide a steady hand, offering guidance, support, and a listening ear to anyone who needs it.
Her philosophy is simple: helping people, offering kindness, and being there for others. This approach has been key to the flourishing of her Neighbourhood Watch scheme, fostering a deep sense of trust and community spirit. Whether it’s offering practical support to residents, organising safety initiatives, or just checking in on her neighbours, Maggie’s efforts have made a lasting impact.
The Power of Kindness and Support
One of the reasons Maggie’s scheme has been so successful is her ability to foster an environment where kindness is at the heart of everything. Residents don’t just see Maggie as the Coordinator of the scheme—they see her as a friend and a pillar of support. Maggie’s commitment to helping others is evident in everything she does, from offering advice on crime prevention to simply being there for someone who needs a chat.
Her ability to connect with people, listen to their concerns, and offer genuine support has created a strong foundation for the Neighbourhood Watch scheme to grow and thrive. This community-driven model has empowered residents to take an active role in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in Baildon.
Recognition in the BBC Report
Maggie’s dedication to her community recently caught the attention of the BBC, who highlighted her incredible work in a special report. The recognition has not only shone a light on Maggie’s contributions but also helped to raise awareness of the amazing impact that Neighbourhood Watch schemes have on local communities.
As Baildon continues to grow, Maggie and her team of Coordinators efforts remain crucial to ensuring that the community stays connected, safe, and supportive. The growth of the area, from a small village to a bustling town, has come with its challenges, but Maggie has been steadfast in her mission to bring people together and ensure that Baildon remains a place where residents look out for each other.
Her success in Baildon is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives, where local people come together to make a difference. Maggie’s story shows that, even in a fast-growing community, the core values of kindness, support, and vigilance can still shine through, creating a safer and more connected environment for all.
Thank You, Maggie and her team
Maggie’s work is a powerful reminder of the positive impact that one person can have on their community. Her unwavering commitment to Baildon’s Neighbourhood Watch scheme has not only made the area safer but also created a space where residents feel empowered and supported.
We celebrate Maggie and her team’s for the work they do every day, and we’re grateful for the lasting difference they have made in Baildon. Thank you, Maggie and team, for being a true hero in your community!
Interested in youth safety? Want to know how communities across England and Wales are empowering young people to engage in crime prevention? Sign up to Neighbourhood Watch Network’s Youth in Action newsletter!
Since 2020, Neighbourhood Watch Network has been on a journey to amplify youth voice in communities. Working in partnership with various youth organisations, the charity is on a mission to ensure that the future shapers and leaders of England and Wales have their say on the safety and crime prevention issues that impact them.
The Youth in Action newsletter is a brand-new digital community bulletin, primarily aimed at individuals and organisations who work, or aspire to work, with young people (16-24-year-olds), and are keen to make their neighbourhoods inclusive of youth crime prevention and safety needs. We also encourage any 16-24-year-olds who want to make a positive change in their communities to sign up too!
Those who sign up to the newsletter can expect to receive insightful news and resources, including:
Updates on how Neighbourhood Watch Network is working to achieve their charity goal of engaging with young people across England and Wales, and offering opportunities for meaningful inclusion and collaboration
The latest youth safety and crime prevention trends
Local impact stories of how communities are effectively working with young people to make neighbourhoods safer, happier, better places to live
Voluntary and paid community action opportunities for 16–24-year-olds across England and Wales
Encouraging Your Community to Join Neighbourhood Watch: Simple Tips to Get Involved
Neighbourhood Watch plays a vital role in creating safer, stronger communities. If you’re already part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, you know the difference it makes when residents come together to protect and support each other. But to ensure that your scheme continues to thrive, it’s essential to encourage more people to join.
Whether you’re looking to expand your group or simply inspire more neighbours to get involved, here are some helpful tips to encourage people to sign up for Neighbourhood Watch and start benefiting from all that it offers.
1. Highlight the Importance of Community Safety
One of the best ways to encourage people to join is by highlighting the importance of community safety. Explain how Neighbourhood Watch schemes help reduce crime, prevent anti-social behaviour, and create a safer environment for everyone. When people understand the direct impact their participation can have on their neighbourhood, they’re more likely to get involved.
2. Promote the Benefits of Being a Member
Neighbourhood Watch isn’t just about keeping your area safe—it also offers several member benefits that make it an attractive option for residents. When promoting your scheme, be sure to mention the following benefits:
Crime prevention advice and updates: Members receive valuable information on local crime trends, safety tips, and how to protect their homes.
Stronger community connections: Join a network of like-minded residents who care about the wellbeing of their neighbourhood.
Free Monthly E-Newsletter
Invitations to crime prevention webinars
Member discounts with partners
Be a part of a well-known organisation
Encourage potential members to sign up at www.ourwatch.org.uk/join to access these benefits and more.
3. Share Success Stories
One of the most effective ways to encourage others to join is by sharing success stories. Highlight how your Neighbourhood Watch scheme has made a real difference in the community. Whether it’s a reduction in local crime, a successful community event, or a specific instance where members helped prevent a crime, real-life examples can inspire others to get involved.
Consider creating a short post for your social media or community bulletin that highlights your scheme’s achievements and the positive impact of having more members.
4. Make It Easy to Join
Sometimes people are reluctant to join because they feel the process will be complicated or time-consuming. Make it simple and easy for people to sign up. Direct them to the quick and straightforward registration process at www.ourwatch.org.uk/join. Mention that joining takes just a few minutes and it’s completely free.
5. Host an Information Event or Meeting
If you’re looking to attract new members, consider hosting an information session or community meeting where people can learn more about Neighbourhood Watch. Use this opportunity to:
Explain how the scheme works
Share your successes and upcoming plans
Answer any questions people might have
It’s also a great chance to meet potential members face-to-face and build relationships.
6. Leverage Social Media and Local Platforms
To reach a wider audience, use social media and local platforms to promote your scheme. Post on local community Facebook groups, neighbourhood apps like Nextdoor, or even community noticeboards. Make sure to include clear information on how to join and the benefits of being part of Neighbourhood Watch.
Encourage current members to share your posts to reach even more people.
7. Offer a Warm Welcome and Involvement
People are more likely to join if they feel they’ll be welcomed into an open and supportive group. Ensure that new members know they will be involved and that their contributions are valued. Whether it’s attending meetings, sharing safety tips, or simply being a friendly face on the street, there are many ways people can contribute to a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
By ensuring newcomers feel comfortable and valued, you’re more likely to retain them as active members.
8. Explain the Role of Volunteers
Emphasise the importance of volunteering in making the scheme successful. Explain that while it’s not a huge time commitment, every little bit helps. Whether it’s keeping an eye out for unusual activity or helping to distribute newsletters, volunteers make a significant difference. People often want to help but just need to know how they can fit in.
9. Encourage a Friend to Join
People are more likely to join a group if they have a friend or neighbour to join with. Encourage your current members to invite a friend or neighbour to sign up. A personal invitation goes a long way in making others feel more comfortable and excited about joining.
Start Building a Safer Community Today
Encouraging others to join Neighbourhood Watch is about more than just increasing numbers—it’s about creating a stronger, safer community where everyone looks out for one another. By highlighting the benefits, sharing your success stories, and making it easy for people to sign up, you can inspire others to take part in building a safer neighbourhood for all.
Together, we can make our communities safer and more connected—one new member at a time!
Find Your Local Neighbourhood Watch Association: A Valuable Resource for Coordinators
As a Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator, you’re an integral part of your community—helping to keep your neighbourhood safe and connected. But did you know that there’s a local Neighbourhood Watch Association in your area that can provide invaluable support for you and your volunteers?
These Associations are an essential resource for all Neighbourhood Watch schemes, and they are designed to help you in your role as a Coordinator. Whether you're looking for advice, resources, or local information, your Neighbourhood Watch Association is here to assist. Best of all, these Associations are volunteer-run and led, so they understand your needs and are passionate about supporting their local communities.
How to Find Your Local Neighbourhood Watch Association
Finding your local Neighbourhood Watch Association is simple! Visit the Our Watch website and use the easy-to-follow tool to locate the Association in your area. Just go to the following link: Find Your Local Neighbourhood Watch Association.
Once you're on the page, scroll down to view a list of Neighbourhood Watch Associations, which are organised by Police Force Areas. This means that you can easily find the Association closest to your area and connect with them.
Why Connect with Your Local Neighbourhood Watch Association?
Your local Association is more than just a point of contact—it’s a hub of support, resources, and valuable information. Here are a few reasons why connecting with them can make a real difference for you and your scheme:
Support for Coordinators and Volunteers: Whether you’re looking for guidance on best practices or need help with specific issues, your local Association can provide advice and support to ensure your scheme operates effectively.
Local Information and Updates: Associations are a great source of local information—from updates on crime trends in your area to news on community initiatives. They can help you stay informed and give you the tools to engage with residents effectively.
Training and Resources: Many Associations offer training opportunities for Coordinators and volunteers, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to run your scheme successfully. They may also provide resources such as crime prevention materials and promotional materials to help spread the word.
Stronger Connections with Partners: Your Association can help you connect with local partners such as the police, fire services, and other community organisations. Building these partnerships can help your scheme grow and ensure your work aligns with broader community safety goals.
A Network of Support: Being a Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator can sometimes feel isolating, but your local Association provides a network of like-minded volunteers who share your commitment to community safety. You can share ideas, challenges, and successes with others in the same role.
Volunteer-Run, Volunteer-Led
One of the best things about Neighbourhood Watch Associations is that they are volunteer-run and led. This means that the people supporting your scheme truly understand the challenges and rewards of the role. They are passionate about making a difference in their communities and are dedicated to ensuring that your Neighbourhood Watch scheme thrives.
As a Coordinator, you’re part of a larger movement of volunteers who work together to improve the safety and wellbeing of their neighbourhoods. By connecting with your local Association, you’re tapping into a wealth of knowledge and resources that will help your scheme succeed.
Get Connected Today
If you haven’t already, take the time to connect with your local Neighbourhood Watch Association. It’s a simple step that can provide you with invaluable support, whether you're looking for advice, resources, or local connections.
Visit Find Your Local Neighbourhood Watch Association and scroll down to locate your Association by Police Force Area. Together, we can continue to build stronger, safer communities for all.
