NCJ Number
113775
Date Published
1988
Length
63 pages
Annotation
This study determines where and how Neighborhood Watch (NW) currently operates in England and Wales, examines the extent to which current NW practice satisfies participants' needs, and considers whether changes in NW policy or practice could increase or expand the benefits.
Abstract
A database from a previous study of approximately 3,700 NW schemes in 9 provincial police force areas and 13 administrative counties in England and Wales was used as the sampling framework for the selection of individual NW schemes examined in greater detail for this study. Questionnaires were mailed to 300 schemes, from which 165 completed forms were received. The number of NW schemes is highest in areas where crime risk is low. In medium-risk areas, notably in certain types of local authority housing estates, NW formation is lagging the furthest behind. In high-risk areas, the proportion of households covered by NW approaches the average for the whole study sample. NW's are similar in organization and activities as well as their benefits. Respondents believe NW schemes are working well. Problems mentioned by respondents are the conversion of initial enthusiasm into active participation, the maintenance of participant enthusiasm, and the inadequacy of police input for schemes. The study concludes that a significant investment of police personnel resources is necessary to satisfy participants and maintain their interest. If NW development is to expand and improve, a more comprehensive and systematic approach, perhaps at the national level, must be adopted. Extensive tables, questionnaires. 14 references.