Frequently asked questions:

How much does it cost to join Neighbourhood Watch?
There is no cost involved in joining Neighbourhood Watch. Setting up your scheme, crime prevention advice and safety literature is all provided free of charge, as are window stickers and quarterly newsletters. Milton Keynes Police also provide schemes with street signs free of charge.

As Co-ordinator how much time will I need to dedicate to running the scheme in my street?
The amount of time you donate to the running of your scheme is entirely up to you. You can do as much as you like, or as little as your time allows. The minimum that will be required of you as a Co-ordinator will be to disseminate Ringmaster messages and quarterly newsletters to members of your scheme, as well as reporting any suspicious incidents. If you do have free time you may wish to organise regular meetings or events for your members.

How many houses should I involve in my scheme?
There is no set limit as to how many houses you should included in your scheme. Schemes can range from a few houses to a whole estate. The only suggestion we would make is that you try to keep your scheme to a manageable number, for the benefit or the Co-ordinator who will be passing out information.

How often do members of our scheme have to meet?
Some schemes choose to have meetings as often as once a month, while others may only meet once a year. Alternatively some may never have another meeting after their initial set-up. It really is a case of what ever suits the needs of your scheme.

Is Neighbourhood Watch run by the police?
While Neighbourhood Watch is supported by the Police it is actually run by volunteers in the community. Ideally there is a Co-ordinator, supported by a Deputy who is responsible for co-ordinating and running the scheme. Milton Keynes Police have in post two Watch Co-ordiantors who offer managerial support to NHW from Milton Keynes Police Station. Scheme Co-ordinators can liaise with these individuals at any time for advice on NHW and Crime Reduction.

How do I go about starting a scheme?
Firstly you will need to get an idea of how many of your neighbours would be interested in joining a NHW scheme. You should then contact you local Watch Co-ordinator at Milton Keynes Police Station on 01908 686168 or 01908 686169. Alternatively you can email at miltonkeynes.ringmaster@thamesvaley.police.uk.

You will then be advised on how to go about starting your Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Can I claim a discount on my home insurance?
Some companies may offer a discount on home insurance if you are a member of a NHW scheme. It is worth while checking this with your provider.


What is Ringmaster?
Ringmaster is a computerised message sending system which the police use to email, telephone or fax Co-ordinators with information. Co-ordinators can select how and when they would like to receive these messages. Ringmaster messages typically contain information on crimes committed in the area, crime reduction advice and any other information which maybe deemed useful.


Will I be advised via Ringmaster of every crime that happens in my area?
You will not receive a message about every crime in your area but will be informed of spates of crime and of incidents where a description of a vehicle or person has been obtained. Typical messages may be a warning of bogus callers or suspicious people seen in your area. You will from time to time receive messages regarding general crime prevention issues. A Co-ordinator would then pass this message on to their scheme members

How do I report an incident to the police?
If you are calling to report a crime in action or you feel yourself or property are in danger always call 999. If you wish to report an incident of a non-emergency nature you can call the single telephone number for Thames Valley Police: 0845 8 505 505.

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