Free locks and security devices for Hemel Hempstead's most vulnerable residents

Free locks and security devices are available across Hertfordshire to the elderly, victims of domestic abuse victims and residents targeted by repeat burglaries.

The crime tackling measures are supplied and fitted at no charge by five technicians working for the Hertfordshire Home Safety Service (HHSS).

Run by Hertfordshire County Council and Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service it has been supported for the past three years by the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office which has paid for one of the technicians, using proceeds of crime monies.

Last year, it conducted over 1,000 home visits to those referred for help by police officers, council staff and case workers from Beacon, Hertfordshire’s victim care centre.

A ‘Year of Beacon’ was launched at the start of 2020 to recognise the wide-range of work it undertakes and to celebrate the 250,000 people it has supported.

Residents entitled to the free services from HHSS include those who fit any of the following groups: aged over 70, registered disabled, victims of domestic violence and those deemed vulnerable because of mental health issues. Burglary victims who have been targeted twice in two years are also eligible.

Services include fitting or maintaining locks to windows, doors and gates at well as anti-climb strips to fences and walls. Fireproof letter flaps are also available plus telephone call blockers for those vulnerable to scams or vogue traders.

Last year they conducted 1,061 home visits which included 505 for domestic abuse victims, 185 for burglary, 94 for anti-social behaviour, 49 for victims of violence, 31 at risk of rogue traders and 14 targeted in hate crime.

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd said: “I believe we have one of the best range of provisions in the country for looking after victims of crime.

“I have help fund the HHSS service for the past three years as it provides reassurance, practical advice and physical equipment to those most at risk in Hertfordshire.

“Preventing crime and protecting the most vulnerable in our society, is a key part of my role as Commissioner, it is not just about policing.

“Beacon contacts every victim of crime in the county, and they have referred many to receive the free services offered by HHSS.”

Steve Holton, Area Commander for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue said: “Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of Herts County Council are proud to provide this service to the residents of Hertfordshire.

“Crime can affect people in different ways and we are all too aware of victims becoming isolated and their confidence being affected.

“The HHSS service provide free practical intervention measures that help to rebuild confidence whilst also helping to prevent crime from happening.”

You can contact Herts Home Safety Service on 0300 1234 046 you can request a referral form by emailing [email protected].

Beacon is staffed by Victim Service Team every day from 8am till 8pm, you can call them on 0300 011 55 55 or visit www.hertfordshirebeacon.org.

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