The community-based, crime prevention organisation Neighbourhood Watch is calling on the community for support during the inaugural Neighbourhood Watch Week.
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Monaro Local Area Command has joined Neighbourhood Watch to show their support for the awareness week, which is on until Sunday, October 9.
Monaro police will be working with Neighbourhood Watch to raise awareness about programs and how people can get involved.
Neighbourhood Watch aims to reduce crime and fear of crime by promoting and coordinating approaches to crime prevention, problem solving and community engagement.
The NSW Police Force has proudly supported Neighbourhood Watch since its inception in 1984. The program is one of a range of crime prevention and community safety strategies currently in use within NSW.
Monaro Local Area Command acting superintendent Mark Murphy said Neighbourhood Watch Week is about interacting with the community to raise awareness about what programs aim to achieve and how they can benefit residents.
“Police have worked closely with Neighbourhood Watch throughout their nearly 30-year history across Australia, and we are proud to continue that partnership,” acting superintendent Murphy said.
“Neighbourhood Watch programs aim to prevent crime, reduce isolation by encouraging community engagement and improve the safety, security and quality of life for everyone in the community.
“Local officers can then work with the program to get a broader understanding of what issues residents are facing and how we can work together to find a solution,” he said.
Acting superintendent Murphy said Neighbourhood Watch Week is about thanking those who continue to show their support for the program, while encouraging more community members to take part.
“Residents can contribute significantly to community policing programs by joining or starting up a Neighbourhood Watch program,” acting inspector Michael Handley said.
Several communities in the Monaro Command have already had meetings with a view of establishing programs.
“Starting a program is as simple as inviting interested neighbours to a gathering to introduce you, talk about the issues that are of concern and encourage discussion on how they may be resolved.
“In addition to crime prevention, connecting with neighbours can also address social isolation and the adverse impacts on general health and wellbeing of individuals, and the community as a whole.”
For further information regarding Neighbourhood Watch, or to find out how you can join a program, please visit: www.nhwa.com.au
