New scheme launches to keep older people safe

A new scheme has been launched by the Berkhamsted and Tring Safer Neighbourhood Team to help keep older residents safer while out and about, and in their own homes.
The Stay Alert initiative launches at Seymour CourtThe Stay Alert initiative launches at Seymour Court
The Stay Alert initiative launches at Seymour Court

The Stay Alert initiative is aimed at elderly residents who live independently and have been a victim of crime, or would like advice, and will see officers working in partnership with Age UK.

A range of topics are covered including personal safety, scams and fraud, purse and wallet thefts, safety in the home, online safety, doorstep crime and anti-social behaviour.

The first event was held at Seymour Court sheltered accommodation, in Tring. Purse bells and personal alarms were handed out and officers from Herts Fire and Rescue Service talked about fire safety in the home.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Adele Hopkin said: “The Stay Alert scheme is an extension of the hard work our Safer Neighbourhood officers and local partners are already doing to help keep residents safer. It allows us to speak with them directly to get important messages and advice across on a range of topics.

“The launch event was a great success. We look forward to working with our partners to hold further events in the coming months.”

People who are visited will also be encouraged to sign up to the Constabulary’s Senior Watch scheme, which is run similarly to Neighbourhood Watch, where messages and information are shared to members through the Online Watch Link (OWL) portal. The messages can then be shared with people who don’t have access to email or social media.

Anyone interested in attending a future event, can contact PCSO Katie Braham via 101.