Share suspicious behaviour in SWF

The days of a traditional Neighbourhood Watch are over, replaced by social media and electronic communication. Although a conventional Neighbourhood Watch group still runs in the town, it covers only about 60 streets. Most people who witness crime tend to report it online on the town's community Facebook page managed by Jon Morter. This Facebook page has successfully attracted over 25,000 members, not all of whom reside in the town. Some are former residents who have moved away but like to stay in touch with friends and activities in the town and some are bored expats who like to browse to see what they are now missing. There is another small group that could best be described as ‘troublemakers’ or ‘trolls’. They look out for posts where they can stir up people, insult or criticise.  They can be a negative influence when crimes are reported which puts some people off. Social media is very good for a discussion until it becomes a slanging match, or people comment just to promote an argument. Negative and malicious comments deter many people from reporting suspicious behaviour they notice.

Inform the police

Any crimes should be reported to South Woodham Police. There is a bit of a tendency to complain about crimes and anti-social behaviour on Facebook without making the police aware.

Street Co-ordinators for Neighbourhood Watch

Residents are invited to become street co-ordinators in the town Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Contact SWF Police Station by dialling 101 and requesting more information.

Send in anonymous alerts

Residents are welcome to send in email alerts about suspicious behaviour that they notice in South Woodham, which will be posted anonymously on this website. This may show up trends or patterns of crime and warn residents of possible dangers. Any criminal action should be reported to the police directly.