Neighbourhood watch

This content applies to Scotland only.

Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. This page applies to Scotland only. Get advice relating to England

If you're having problems with crime or vandalism in your area, or if you simply want to keep your area free of these problems, you might be interested in joining a neighbourhood watch group. This page has more information.

What is a neighbourhood watch scheme?

It's a group of concerned people who live in an area, estate or street who care about the community they live in and want to keep problems like crime and vandalism away from their homes.

You don't have to be in the police to be a member of a neighbourhood watch scheme.

As a member of a neighbourhood watch scheme, you'll meet with others in the group and you'll be encouraged to look out for anything suspicious that goes on in your area and report it if necessary. Neighbourhood watch groups usually meet regularly to:

• discuss issues of concern
• report anything of significance
• discuss new initiatives
• listen to talks from relevant speakers.

The aim is to prevent problems in your area by working together as a community.

How can neighbourhood watch help me?

Neighbourhood watch schemes can help to reduce crime, vandalism, antisocial behaviour and general trouble in the area you live in.

Some people argue that it can make you feel safer in your home because people care about the area they live in and want to keep it safe.

It can also help you to get to know your neighbours and form a good relationship with them. This helps to build a sense of community where you live. The ability to call on your neighbours can be a big bonus if you're going through a tough time in your life and need some extra support.

Where's my nearest neighbourhood watch group?

You can find information about your nearest group in lots of different places including:

• libraries
• community centres
• schools
• leaflets that come through your door.

Or, you might know of someone in your neighbourhood who's already involved. If so, you can ask them for more information.

Your local police station may also be able to give you some information about a group near you.

If there isn't a neighbourhood watch scheme in your area, you could start one yourself. Contact the Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches for information on how to do this.

Further information

The Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches website contains information including:

• calendar of events
• links to other useful sites including individual neighbourhood watch associations and police forces across Scotland
• discussion forums so you can share ideas and experiences with others.

You can also set up your own neighbourhood watch website linking to this.

You can find more practical hints and tips on keeping your home secure in our page on crime and security.

If you're interested in what goes on in your area and want to have a say on what happens you could also consider joining a tenants' or residents' association.