If you are interested in joining a scheme, setting up your own scheme, or just need further information - then please get in touch with us.
You can view whats involved in setting up and running a neighbourhood watch scheme here.
A typical description for the Coordinator role can be found here.
A scheme requires at least one person as coordinator - to act as the point of contact with Suffolk Neighbourhood Watch Association (SNWA) and they are required to complete a data protection form which gives SNWA permission to hold their contact details on a database. This also enables a direct line of communication with our schemes membership.
It should be stressed that there is no right or wrong way to run a scheme. You do not have to hold meetings, you do not have to produce newsletters - you and your members choose what works best for the scheme. But whatever method used, the key objective is to look out for each other and communicate with one another. By keeping in touch, it enables neighbours and communities to be made aware of not just policing news and crime issues, but also to share any other useful information as well.
Larger groups may choose email, or social media platforms as the easiest method to communicate, whereas smaller groups might prefer the spoken word, or even a note put through their door.
Once signed up, we provide new schemes with access to the latest member guide, as well as window stickers for their members.
There is also opportunity to apply for street signage - which is another visible deterrent against crime.
We always recommend schemes apply for funding from locality budgets to cover the costs of signs (and any installation costs where applicable). Schemes can approach their County Councillor in this regard.
Once a scheme is established, we help them connect with their Safer Neighbourhood Team and Community Engagement Officer from Suffolk Constabulary; and where available, the local SNWA Area Network coordinator, who acts as a point of contact for active schemes in the local surrounding village, parish or town.