Neighbourhood Watch
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long would I have to serve as a member of Neighbourhood
Watch?
A. You're under no obligation - serve for as
long or as short a time as you wish. If you do decide to leave
though,
it helps if you can give your Neighboorhood Watch Co-ordinator
a little notice, so they can fill the gap you will leave.
Q. Does being a member of Neighbourhood Watch mean that
I can involve my family?
A. Generally speaking, yes - but do make sure that children
don't become too involved, apart from making them aware of
when they themselves are at risk. Neighbourhood Watch requires
maturity, judgement and an adult sense of responsibility.
Q. Will membership give the impression that I am working
for the police?
A. The fact is that you are not. Everything said and written
about Neighbourhood Watch shows that you are in effect doing
what every responsible citizen should be doing - helping
the police and your neighbours to create and maintain a safe,
crime-free community.
Q. I have a disability. Will it create problems? Are disabled
people really welcome in the scheme?
A. Disabled or handicapped people can
often prove to be the most useful members. But if you have
doubts, have a word
with your Neighboorhood Watch Co-ordinator.
Q. Am I expected to patrol the streets?
Absolutely not. The police strongly discourage vigilantes
and people who seek to take the law into their own hands.
Apart from the risk of physical injury, there can be serious
legal implications. If, however, you would like to play a
more active role, you could always consider applying to join
the Metropolitan Police Special Constabulary. As a Special
Constable, you will be able to help the police on a voluntary
basis as a fully trained officer in uniform.
In an Emergency Telephone
999
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