Neighbourhood Watch in Kingsway, Gloucester 2021

Kingsway, a large suburb of Gloucester has demonstrated how Neighbourhood Watch groups are turning to digital technology to keep their communities safe and informed.

The Kingsway Village estate, near to Quedgeley, saw a number of anti-social behaviour incidents during October and November 2020, with troubles including motorcycles riding on paths, drug dealing and young people loitering.

However, following public meetings called by concerned local residents, police increased their patrols and worked with the community to help launch 17 new neighbourhood watch groups in just six months. People living in the area say they now feel safer, knowing they have the support of a local group and a direct link to police.

To mark Neighbourhood Watch Week, which runs from the 7th to the 13th of June 2021, Gloucestershire’s Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and Gloucestershire Constabulary has released a video about the changing face of Gloucestershire’s neighbourhood watch.

As the organisation aims to shed its ‘curtain twitching’ stereotype, it hopes for recognition as a way for families to engage with their neighbours and to build relationships in their communities. #NeighbourhoodWatchWeek