Neighborhood Watch In The UK

The United Kingdom is much like any other region of the world when it comes to safety concerns, especially in residential neighborhoods. While the police of the UK are highly regarded as some of the most efficient and reliable service men and women available, additional measures are often required to keep families safe. One of the most common measures that people take, is the establishment of neighborhood watch programs throughout residential areas of the UK. A neighborhood watch functions to protect residents within a certain area from crime. It also serves to protect the children of a neighborhood from child predators who wish to do them harm.

One of the most important aspects of neighborhood watch programs in the UK, is that each one is comprised of individuals within a community. These individuals come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and most have a wide variety of professions. However, all of the people who become a part of such a program have one common goal; to protect themselves and others within their neighborhood from danger. Danger comes in many forms, and while the police are still a major factor, neighborhood citizens are on the front lines of the action.

A neighborhood watch is only as good as its members allow it to be. This essentially means that each person assumes ultimate responsibility for what transpires within his or her own neighborhood. Each person must remain vigilant, especially when it comes to observation. For example, criminals such as burglars often case a neighborhood before they strike. This means that they visit the area several times to target specific houses which appear to be vacant often. The good news is this leaves them vulnerable to being spotted by a neighborhood watch member. If a suspicious car or van makes its way through the neighborhood several times over a short period, then it can be reported by a member.

Most neighborhood watches develop a protocol for handling emergency situations. Emergencies might be classified according to severity. Remember, a neighborhood watch is not just created to deter or report crime and suspicious activity. It is also created to help people who sustain accidents in their yards, or even when a car wreck occurs. Each member must know what the appropriate plan of action is when the times comes to help someone. This prevents confusion under more serious circumstances.

Neighborhood watches also provide a great way for people within a community to get to know one another. Exchanging information is an important aspect of this type of program as well, because it means that everyone has someone that they can contact if an emergency happens. It also allows you to trust those who live around you. The more that people know and understand about their neighbors, the more likely they will be to solve problems much more quickly. Once a neighborhood watch is established, your organization might decide to erect signs which establish the areas as a neighborhood watch area. This ultimately deters criminals from entering your residence.

Rubbish, Waste and Vandalism Issues in London as an Example

The neighbourhood watch, despite popular belief, is for more reasons than just protection of the neighbourhoods citizens. Without a doubt they exist to protect them but also to protect the environment in the neighbourhood. Vandalism, anti-social behaviour and things like fly-tipping can hurt the environment and property prices in an area. In London this is a problem especially. Careless individuals leave rubbish in the streets without a second thought. Members should keep a watchful eye on such cases so they can take a number of steps.

Report

The first and most important step is to report the incident to the local council and/or police. The only way proper, legal action can eventually be taken is if these organisations are aware of the issue.

Prevent the issue happening again

If possible, put measures in place to prevent the issue happening again. If vandalism is the main issue, try and put up CCTV solutions, sign post the area saying you know it is a hot spot and that the council will prosecute those breaking the law (if you have authority/permission to do so).

Remedy by hiring a cleaning or waste collection company

Finally, try to remedy or fix the problem. We know it does not fall directly to you and that it shouldn't be your responsibility. None the less, someone else will not always clear up the issue. If your area is a victim of fly tipping and it is directly effecting your house sale or causing an eye sore on your property, you have the option to hire a waste collection service in London (or indeed the surrounding areas) to collect the rubbish and dispose of it in an environmentally friendly manner. If graffiti is the issue, you might be forced to hire a cleaning company to resolve it. It is unfortunate but sometimes, if the issue needs to be resolved immediately, going private is the only way to guarantee this.