Police drive to recruit a ‘spy’ for every street in Camden

The move, announced at a victim of crime event in Swiss Cottage on Saturday, follows a general decline in volunteers for the NW scheme which has been operating for over 30 years.

Officers hope to recuit a resident in every street to help coordinate their neighbours to help police with crime detection and prevention.

Insp Steven Wright, who is leading the drive, said: “The true value of engaging and making better use of our communities has never been so vital.

“Most people in the community want to help and work with the police to keep their areas safe. Neighbourhood Watch is a key part of this and in Camden, we are committed to establishing schemes in every street.

He added, “We are looking for volunteers to become co-ordinators to help us achieve this. A well run NHW scheme is proven to reduce crime and help keep the people informed of what is happening in their area.”

He aims to set up a new database, support groups, training initiatives, crime prevention advice and hold regular meetings between coordinators and senior police leaders and councillors.

Existing neighbourhood watch volunteers were on hand along with other victim support groups and senior officers at the event at the Central School of Speech and Drama, in Eton Avenue, on Saturday.

Victims of crime dropped in during the morning to chat to senior officers and councillors about their concerns and learn about support servicees.

Borough commander Ch Supt Richard Tucker chatted to crime victims and volunteers.

He said: “This is the first victim care event held in Camden. We wanted to hear from victims of crime about their experiences so we can learn how to support them in a more joined up and beneficial way.”

Camden deputy mayor Larraine Revah was also there, along with members of Camden Alcohol Service, Camden Victim Support, Camden LGBT Forum, the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, and young members of the Police Cadets from Maria Fidelis School.