Angelique Foster, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner, has awarded fresh funding to Neighbourhood Watch schemes across the county to help communities fight back against crime.
A total of 13 schemes successfully applied for funding through the second round of the Commissioner's 2023-24 Neighbourhood Watch Support Fund (NHWSF) - bringing the grand total this financial year to almost £5k.
The funding will be invested in a raft of proactive community safety tools including bike locks, street signs, community engagement postcards, personal alarms, and social media advertising to reduce crime and help generate new members.
The micro grants, which total £1,932.65 in the latest round, support the Commissioner's work to prevent anti-social behaviour and neighbourhood crime and reduce the fear of crime across Derbyshire and Derby City.
They also help fulfil the Commissioner's Police and Crime Plan pledge to support the expansion of Neighbourhood Watch schemes across the county and city to help keep local communities safe as part of her Neighbourhood Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour Police and Crime Plan priority.
Applications have been reviewed by the Commissioner's delivery partner, Derbyshire Neighbourhood Watch Association Trust (DNWAT), to ensure they deliver value for money for the public and support the increased visibility of NHW across the county.
Each scheme has received funding worth up to £300 to support their work to protect people and property from crime.
Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster said: "No community should have to put up with crime or nuisance behaviour. Across Derbyshire and Derby City, residents are working hard to support their local police by protecting each other, remaining vigilant to suspicious activity, and helping vulnerable neighbours to feel connected and supported to reduce isolation. I applaud these efforts and am keen to continue supporting more positive preventative activity.
"Neighbourhood Watch volunteers are a bridge between the public and the police and help to relay vital information to keep people safe from harm. I am grateful for their ongoing support and will do everything I can to support and expand their work across our communities."