received from the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network
Information has been received from the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network (NHWN) concerning a website purporting to be Neighbourhood Watch.
The website is called www.nhwo.co.uk and was launched on 14th December 2011. This website is not supported by the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network and has no links with them. The marketing of the site is pitched to NHW members to register their scheme and obtain membership resources. They are marketing a ‘co-ordinators’ pack at £39.99 which includes 2 street signs, stickers and a high visibility vest with Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator on the back. There is no mention of good practice; partnership working with the local police service or insurances.
Concern has been expressed over the lack of co-ordination of the scheme; the possible mis-use of the high visibility vest and the gathering of personal details including banking details from those who have signed up to the site and purchased materials. (NHW Members are reminded not to divulge their personal or banking details to anyone)
Discussions have already been held with ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers) the Home Office the Scottish NHW Association.
Anyone wishing to join a NHW scheme should contact a member of their local Neighbourhood Policing Team or the Neighbourhood Watch Administrator who can be contacted on the police non-emergency telephone number 101.
