Date issued: 21 April 2020
Residents and groups working to build safer, stronger and more active communities across the borough have been given a boost, thanks to a new website launched by Colchester Neighbourhood Watch.
Following proactive partnership work between Colchester Neighbourhood Watch and Colchester Borough Council’s community safety team, the website, which was created with the help of a £750 grant from the Safer Colchester Partnership, offers a repository of crime prevention advice and practical information, with links to numerous public safety organisations including Essex Police and Crimestoppers.
Colchester Borough Council's ICT and Online teams provided technical advice during project initiation, before a local web design company was chosen to build the site.
Access to content is free to visitors, who can also complete a registration form to join their local Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
Grahame Stehle, Chairman of Colchester Neighbourhood Watch, said: “The new, modern-looking web site is a tremendous asset, enabling Neighbourhood Watch to distribute crime prevention advice more widely within the borough. The new site, at www.colchesternhw.org.uk, allows residents to join Colchester Neighbourhood Watch and enjoy the benefits of membership easily and more quickly than before.”
Cllr Mike Lilley, Colchester Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, Wellbeing and Public Safety, added: “I am delighted the Safer Colchester Partnership and the council have lent their support to this important new community resource.
“If there is one thing that we have surely learned from the coronavirus crisis it is that people working together, with their hearts and minds set on serving the common good, can help build safer and more resilient communities.
“The Neighbourhood Watch scheme represents – indeed, has always represented – the very values needed to help get us through this crisis and beyond. Now, more than ever, we need to look out for our neighbours, support each other and our local communities, and each play a part in helping to protect them.”
Page last reviewed: 21 April 2020