PSNI launch Church Watch

The scheme will see up-to-date and localised crime prevention information and advice shared with churches of all denominations throughout the district via email.

Those on the contact list will regularly be sent information on local crime trends, warnings about bogus callers or particular relevant incidents along with police literature for display in church buildings.

The churches will also be given a specific Church Watch leaflet and poster for them to deliver to properties that overlook church buildings and to issue to nearby businesses. 

It is hoped this will encourage local people to report any suspicious activity they note in or around local churches.

Police believe the initiative will help reduce crime against places of worship and reduce fear of crime as well as help develop better communication and relationships between police, the churches and their congregations by providing a single point of contact for any issues.

“The PSNI in D District has set up this Community Safety initiative in partnership with our churches in response to crimes against places of worship, such as metal and lead thefts,” said Community Safety Inspector Colin Audley.

“Our aim is to get vital crime reduction messages on burglary, scams, advice to name but a few into the heart of our churches for them to pass on to their congregations to help make our communities a safer place.

“Churches and church leaders have an important role to play and this initiative provides that platform.”

Any church in the District that that would like to take part in Church Watch should e-mail [email protected]