Neighbourhood Watch Scheme launched

Councillor Brian Bloomfield, Chairman of the Lisburn PCSP launches the Beechdene Gardens Neighbourhood Watch Scheme with members of the PCSP, PSNI and the local community.

The Scheme has been set up to address the concerns of residents and improve communications with the local police and PCSP.

Councillor Brian Bloomfield, Chairman of Lisburn PCSP, speaking at the launch of the Scheme, said: “I am delighted that the residents of Beechdene Gardens have endorsed the setting up of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and the turn-out this evening shows the support for policing and community safety in this community.

“By working together and looking out for one another, local communities can effectively reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime.

“I look forward to working with the Scheme Co-ordinators and engaging with them at events organised for Neighbourhood Watch Schemes.”

Neighbourhood Watch Schemes are in existence across the City and are strongly valued by the local police.

Chief Inspector John Wilson, Lisburn Area Commander, commenting on the establishment of this particular scheme, said: “Neighbourhood Watch is about making sure that no one has to feel afraid, vulnerable or isolated in the place where they live.

“It’s about people looking out for each other, crossing barriers of age, race and class to create real communities that benefit everyone.

“Neighbourhood Watch groups succeed by taking a clear look at the needs in their areas and responding with intelligent, targeted and often innovative solutions.

“Making your neighbourhood safer is partly about increasing security, but it’s also about reducing the incentive to commit crime. Neighbourhood Watch groups work on both.

“They initiate security measures and also work to make their neighbourhoods pleasant and friendly places where crime is less likely to happen.”

Two Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators have been appointed for the Beechdene Scheme, Stephen Campbell and Dennis Fullerton.

Both men acknowledged that the Scheme has helped to refresh community spirit and the desire to look out for one another.

To find out more about Neighbourhood Watch Schemes in the local area or for further information on how to set up your own scheme, log onto the official Neighbourhood Watch Scheme website at www.ourwatch.org.