Neighbourhood Watch Returns to Dyfed-Powys

A resurgence of community spirit is underway in Dyfed-Powys as Neighbourhood Watch Schemes make a comeback across the region.

The initiative, led by Ajay Owen, has a long history of fostering safety and community engagement, aims to empower residents to play an active role in safeguarding their local neighbourhoods and collaborating with various organisations and Emergency Services.

“This is an excellent opportunity for residents across the 4 counties. Not only will we be liaising with Dyfed-Powys Police, but we’re here to support all emergency services. We have the approval of the Police & Crime Commissioner & we have partnered with CrimeStoppers Wales who believe strongly in our initiative”, said Ajay Owen, Chair of Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch.

Neighbourhood Watch groups provide a platform for residents to share information, report suspicious activity, and work together to create a safer environment. By building strong relationships between residents and the local Police, these schemes can help deter crime and improve the overall quality of life in communities.

A great example of how Neighbourhood Watch can make an impact is the most recent Mount Estate Rubbish Crisis in Milford Haven. People around the area were coming into the estate and fly-tipping, locals were confused on their rubbish days and people would not want to follow new guidelines regarding recycling. With Neighbourhood Watch partnering up with the Local Authortity and Local Waste Management Teams, they are at the beginning of a new initiative where they will be educating locals regarding their waste management and deterring people from entering the estate to fly-tip.

Jordan Rice, Vice-Chair of Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch said, “it is great to see external agencies liaise with us. This shows that Local authorities, local agencies and the people who have to live in these areas do want change. This creates a positive change within the community and brings the community closer together.”

As part of the relaunch, Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch is offering training and support to residents interested in starting their own Scheme or joining a Neighbourhood Watch group. The training will cover topics such as crime prevention, communication, and effective group management.

A local resident said, “I think this will be a great thing to start in our area. Not only will it bring together the community, but we have high hopes that it will reconnect some people within our areas. A lot of people appear to be lost in society, and having Neighbourhood Watch Schemes in their areas will be able to support them with general advice and support.”

The return of Neighbourhood Watch is a welcome development for many residents and community councils in Dyfed-Powys. By working together, communities can create a safer and more vibrant place for everyone.

If you’re interested in joining, you can contact Ajay Owen directly via email on dyfedpowyswatch@gmail.com, the Vice-Chair on jordandyfedpowysnhw@gmail.com, Danielle Hartnell (Association Secretary) on dyfedpowyssec@gmail.com or you can head over to their website at: ourwatch.org.uk/join. Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch’s website is: http://www.ggdpnw.uk.