Neighbourhood Watch Week, which runs from Sunday 7 – Saturday 13 June 2020, will this year celebrate what it means to be a neighbour, the connections that are made, and the importance of staying connected through good and bad times – under the banner ‘Be Kind, Connect, Support and Share’.
Neighbourhood Watch is about people getting together with their neighbours to take action to reduce crime, as well as bring communities together and reassure those who live in the area.
During this year’s Neighbourhood Watch Week, residents are being encouraged to celebrate their neighbours by taking part in activities such a Virtual Big Lunch, having picnics at the same time in their owns gardens and making and hanging bunting to brighten up the street.
GMP Superintendent Umer Khan, said: “Greater Manchester Police is strongly encouraging of residents joining their local Neighbourhood Watch Schemes, which create a greater sense of community and help to keep areas safe.
“During COVID-19, we have seen the importance of supporting those around us. Schemes such as Neighbourhood Watch encourage this and benefit the whole community.
“I would also encourage that residents continue to report crime to us, via the online reporting services on our website or dialling 101. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
Chair of Greater Manchester Neighbourhood Watch Association, Andrew Taylor, said: “Neighbourhood Watch is about making sure that fewer people feel afraid, vulnerable or isolated in the place where they live. We want to create friendly, active neighbourhoods and strengthen communities where crime and anti-social behaviour are less likely to happen.
“These are challenging times for all of us – and Neighbourhood Watch supporters have responded rapidly to the coronavirus crisis.
“Following government advice, it’s important to remember to wash your hands thoroughly and regularly, but I would also say, don’t wash your hands of being a good neighbour!”
For more information on Neighbourhood Watch Week and how you could get involved visit www.ourwatch.org.uk.
