Police in Mid Ulster urge neighbours to look out for elderly to prevent crime

Supt. Mike Baird explained: “As part of our focus on burglary we are visiting some of our elderly and more vulnerable residents to help them feel safe in their homes and provide advice on making their home and property secure.

“It can be easy in today’s society to feel isolated and I am asking local communities to help us protect the people in our neighbourhoods who may feel alone.

“The most effective way to help each other is to become a ‘nosy neighbour’.

“Get to know the people in your neighbourhood and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or vehicles. If you notice something that doesn’t look right, phone us straight away and check on your vulnerable neighbours.”

Supt. Baird continued: “It could also be a good idea to consider a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Anyone can belong to a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and play a part in its achievements. A scheme can cover just one street or part or all of an estate and requires a Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator. The coordinator acts as a link between the community and local police and they are the first point of contact for all members of the scheme to receive and distribute information.

“We have seen how successful we can be when we work in partnership with the community and I would encourage any member of the public who is interested in working with us to reduce crime in their area to contact us. Anyone who is interested in the role of NHW Coordinator can also contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.”