Safety charity breaks records
West Herts Against Crime, which works closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue and district councils, has provided security for 425 homes
West Herts Against Crime, which works closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue and district councils, has provided security for 425 homes since April - up 5% on the same period last year. The latest increase follows a record breaking year in 2006/7 when the charity made safe a total of 719 homes in West Hertfordshire.
West Herts Against Crime CEO, Nikki Stageman, said:
"The charity continues to go from strength to strength and we welcome more enquiries from residents in Three Rivers, Watford and Dacorum. We provide simple safety and security measures, particularly for older people, for free or for only a small charge."
Nikki Stageman added:
"We encourage more enquiries from residents and service providers for these services - just one extra home protected really makes a difference."
The charity's security provision includes mortice locks, spy holes and door chains, smoke detectors, window locks plus shed and garage security bars.
Councillor Roger Seabourne, Chair of the Three Rivers Community Safety Partnership, which helps fund the charity, said:
"Pensioners often feel afraid of being victims of crime although statistically they are at relatively low risk. West Herts Against Crime not only provides extra protection against burglary and bogus callers but also makes people feel safer."
West Herts Against Crime is funded by the three Community Safety Partnerships, Herts Fire & Rescue Service, Hertfordshire County Council, local authorities and Adult Care Services.
In the current year, 139 homes secured have been in Three Rivers, 138 in Dacorum and 148 in Watford. Last year (2006/7) 604 homes were secured in Three Rivers, 641 homes were secured in Watford, 474 in Dacorum.
West Herts Against Crime's services are free for residents over 60, those who are vulnerable or housebound, or who are repeat victims of burglary.
Free home security and fire safety checks are available to ALL residents in the three districts. Residents can contact the charity direct on 01923 801138 watrac@freenet.co.uk
Councillor Roger Seabourne is the Community Safety Portfolio Holder for Three Rivers District Council and Chair of the Three Rivers Community Safety Partnership.