What is NHW?

Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) is one of the biggest and most successful crime prevention initiatives ever. Behind it lies a simple idea, and a central value shared by millions of people around the country.

Getting together with your neighbours to take action can cut local crime.

Everyone knows that the police are there to fight crime, but they need your help to do an effective job. NHW (or Home watch as it is know in some areas) is all about an active partnership with the police. NHW schemes can:

• Cut crime and the opportunities for crime
• Help and reassure those who live in fear of crime
• Encourage neighbourliness and closer communities

A better place to live, work and play

NHW is not just about reducing burglary figures – it's about creating communities who care. It brings local people together and can make a real contribution to improving their lives. The activity of Watch members can foster a new community's ability to tackle problems. At the same time, you feel secure, knowing your neighbours are keeping an eye on your property.

There are other benefits to NHW schemes too. You will become familiar with crime prevention ideas which will help keep your home and belongings safe. The extra security which belonging to a NHW scheme offers, might even mean that you can get a premium discount from your insurance company.

How schemes work

NHW schemes can be large, covering for example, most of the households on an estate; or they might involve just half a dozen houses. It depends on the area and what people living there want.
A scheme is generally led by a volunteer co-ordinator whose job is to get people working together and make sure things get done. Schemes keep in close touch with local police to share information and advice.