West Midlands Police have expressed their gratitude for the support of vibrant volunteers who are helping to combat crime and look out for their community through Neighbourhood Watch. 

The force said they appreciate the commitment and dedication of groups across the region who play a vital role in their areas - and assist them in keeping people safe and criminals away.

This includes Sandwell Valley Neighbourhood Watch which is an active group with more than 200 households that actively participate. This is more than 40 per cent of the area compared to a national average of under 10 per cent. Its diverse members range from teenagers to those aged in their 90s; all of whom get involved in a range of activities from clean up events to acting as 'eyes and ears' of the neighbourhood to inform police of anything suspicious.

They’ve also taken action themselves by improving security measures after identifying hotspot times and locations following a spate of vehicle crime, burglary and anti-social behaviour. Their activities, and the information fed into officers, has enabled them to make arrests and prosecute offenders to drastically stop the crime trend.

The scheme was launched three years ago and crime prevention advice and community issues are regularly shared and discussed at meetings, door-to-door or via mobile phone group chats - which has been more prevalent in CoVID-19 lockdown.

The members have further shown their caring side by looking out for the vulnerable and also paying tribute to health staff in the borough. This saw them organise regular food packages, essentials and accommodation with the help of local partners, stakeholders and other community groups. Kardaya Rooprai, chairman of the West Midlands Neighbourhood Watch Force Area Association and one of the founding co-ordinators of the Sandwell Valley NHW, said:

"It’s all about people helping each other. We’re playing our part in the community to improve the area and lives, by helping to prevent and reduce crime and whilst also keeping people safe. 

"It only works if you all work together, and we have made the investment to build strong relationships with the police and other partners. It’s a really satisfying feeling to be involved in making a difference to people’s lives and the community as a whole."

Sandwell Police Superintendent and force volunteer lead, Martin Hurcomb, added:

"We really appreciate and value the work of Neighbourhood Watch groups who play a vital role within their communities.

"Groups like Sandwell Valley NHW are an active part of their community. They work together to prevent and reduce crime, the fear of crime, and look out for each other."

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch and how to set one up in your area visit west-midlands.police.uk.