New community scheme to reduce crime in North Worcestershire

West Mercia Police are trialling a new community scheme in Wythall which, they hope, will increase security in the area and help prevent crime.

Street Watch is a national initiative, run locally by volunteers who work closely with their neighbourhood policing team to identify areas of risk and increase engagement between them and the community.

A small group of volunteers has already been recruited in Wythall where a pilot scheme was launched last night (Thursday 20 January) as part of the National Police Chiefs Council neighbourhood policing week of action.

West Mercia Chief Constable Pippa Mills and Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Tracey Onslow were both at the launch to give their support to the pilot scheme which, if successful, will be introduced in other areas of West Mercia.

The volunteers do not have any policing powers but are given training for their roles and have the support of officers.

They patrol in pairs at a time of day that suits them and offer a minimum of two hours a month.

During their patrols they will talk to other members of the public offering crime prevention advice if required and respond to concerns, which are then passed on to the police team.

Inspector Lee Page, of West Mercia Police, said: “Street Watch is already proving to be worthwhile in other force areas and I am delighted that we are able to run this trial in West Mercia.

“Its success is largely due to the commitment of local people wanting to do the best for their communities, providing visible reassurance and passing on any concerns raised with them to the local policing team.

“I would like to thank the volunteers who have already come forward in Wythall and invite anyone else interested to get in touch with us.

“We offer training, support and all necessary equipment including hi-visibility clothing.

“No-one is expected to get involved in any confrontations but just engage positively with other people.

“It’s all about reassurance and making everyone feel safer in their community.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion added: “These volunteers are making a valuable contribution to making our communities be safe and feel safe.

“The scheme in no way replaces the work of police but enhances the reassuring approach, preventing crime and building better relationships.

“My commitment is to ensure that West Mercia is a visible and accessible as possible and I’m grateful to all the volunteers who have played a part in this.”