Communities Together Scheme launched to ensure safety of residents
Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) is supporting Malvern and Upton Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT)'s newly launched Communities Together Scheme.
The scheme aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the communities across the district by encouraging a sense of unity and vigilance.
It has been set up in response to an increase in the presence of 'Nottingham Knockers' (individuals who go door-to-door selling, usually household products) and individuals known as 'Rogue Traders' seen in the area during an operation conducted by the Malvern and Upton SNT.
These individuals often targeted vulnerable community members, engaging in oppressive behaviour. Additionally, there were reports of suspicious incidents in various neighbourhoods and elderly residences.
As part of the scheme, a Neighbourhood Watch Group has been set up within the Neighbourhood Matters platform, which is tailored to specific areas.
By joining this group, residents will receive vital information from the police, such as details about patrol activity in their area, invitations to group meetings and surgeries, updates on suspicious incidents, witness appeals, crime prevention advice, and more.
As well as this, to target residents that may not have access to technology, MHDC, and Upton and Malvern SNT have produced a comprehensive booklet with advice which will be provided to each resident, along with a 'No Cold Callers' window sticker.
The Fruitlands Estate in Great Malvern has been chosen as a primary focus for the launch of the scheme due to its frequent targeting by 'Nottingham Knockers' and its existing strong community.
PC Jo Tredwell, West Mercia Police, said: "With this scheme, we aim for police and residents to work together to keep everybody safe. This collaborative effort encourages neighbours to look out for each other, engage with the local policing team, and share information in order to raise collective awareness. By fostering strong community bonds and increasing communication, the scheme seeks to create a safer and stronger environment for everyone".
Sergeant Geraint Perkins, Malvern and Upton Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "The Communities Together Scheme is an important step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. By working hand in hand, residents and the local policing team can build a stronger, more secure environment for everyone. Together, we can make a difference and create a community that is united in safeguarding its members"
Cllr Natalie McVey, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Health (with responsibility for Community Safety) at Malvern Hills District Council, said: "We are pleased to have provided support to such an important initiative. Raising awareness of such things as scams, crime trends and suspicious activity, is the first step in helping to reduce crime and protect the wellbeing of our residents".
For advice and support on setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, email the Malvern Hills District Council Community Safety Team on
Pictured: PC 2451 Jo Tredwell and PCSO 6209 Karen Watson on patrol in the Fruitlands Estate where they handed out the Communities Together booklets.