The Derry Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is delivering a safer homes initiative throughout the Derry City Council area.
The initiative comes with the start of the darker nights a time when the elderly and vulnerable neighbours can often feel isolated and exposed to an increased fear of crime.
The PCSP and its partners are delivering a number of talks to community groups to reduce the fear of crime especially during the winter months.
Community Safety Wardens have already delivered presentations to groups in the Glen , Rosemount, Park, Claudy, Drumahoe, Ardmore, Strathfolyle and Hazelbank.
The PCSP can provide home safety equipment to residents who have been the victim of crime or who feel vulnerable or isolated. Equipment available includes oil tank locks, bin locks, sensor lights, timer switches, personal attack alarms, padlocks etc.
The partnership also has a DVD available to community/residents groups explaining how to deal effectively with bogus callers. The DVD titled “Don’t be my Guest” is available by contacting the PCSP on 02871 376565 or [email protected].
Speaking on the initiative, Sinn Fein Cllr Paul Fleming, chairperson of the Derry PCSP said one of the primary functions of the group was to reduce fear of crime within local communities
He added: “This initiative will help increase community safety by reducing opportunities for burglars to access properties. The PSNI has reported that the majority of burglaries in the city and district are opportunistic due to doors and windows being left unlocked. I would urge all residents to remember to close it, lock it, check it even if leaving home for a few minutes and to contact the PCSP if they know of anyone in need of additional home safety equipment.”
