Have you ever thought about Neighbourhood Watch and how it could benefit you?

Neighbourhood Watch is for the community and run by the community. It is about being vigilant, not vigilantes, looking after yourself, your family, your property and your community.

The main aim of Neighbourhood Watch is

• 'working in partnership with Suffolk Constabulary to make neighbourhoods more secure and our communities feel safer.'
• Developing the community spirit in your area and being prepared to report all suspicious incidents immediately.
• Being aware of what crime is happening in your area, so you can take steps to prevent yourself and your neighbours becoming a victim of crime.

If you are a member of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme you may be able to get a discount on your House Insurance. Many large Insurance Companies recognise the fact that if you are part of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme you are far less likely to become a victim of crime thus offering a discount of anything between a 5% and 15% discount.

It is recommended that each Neighbourhood Watch Scheme is no larger than 50 properties, with at least three householders acting as Co-ordinators to assist with the running of the Scheme. This enables a very good, close working relationship between neighbours.

We give ongoing support to all our Neighbourhood Watch Schemes offering up to date crime bulletins and appropriate crime reduction advice and regular personal contact with Officers at Network meetings.

With the five Safer Neighbourhood Teams across Ipswich the Force has a very close working relationship with their Neighbourhood Watch Schemes. These Teams are about identifying and addressing neighbourhood priorities, improving engagement with their communities and, together with partners, creating safer neighbourhoods. Details of your local Safer Neighbourhood Team can be found at www.onesuffolk.co.uk/safersuffolk

You can find out more detailed information about Neighbourhood Watch by visiting www.suffolk.police.uk/neighbourhoodwatch

To start a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme or just to find out more, without obligation, please contact Anthea Pipe, your Community Watch Liaison Officer on Ipswich 383142 on either Tuesdays or Fridays between 9.00 am and 4:00 pm or email anthea.pipe@suffolk.pnn.police.uk .

Crime cannot flourish in a community that cares.