Make a Difference in 2026: Join or Start a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme

Residents across Aylesbury are being encouraged to take a simple but powerful step towards building safer, stronger communities in 2026.

Val McPherson, Area Neighbourhood Watch Representative and Administrator for Aylesbury, is calling on local people to consider joining or setting up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in their area.

“Many of our volunteers who have started Neighbourhood Watch schemes want to live, work and encourage a safer and stronger neighbourhood,” says Val. “Setting up a scheme where you live can make a big difference.”

Neighbourhood Watch schemes are a visible sign that a community stands together. They send a clear message that crime and anti-social behaviour are not welcome, while helping to bring neighbours and residents closer together.

Importantly, running a scheme is not a major commitment. It typically takes just a couple of hours a month, and schemes can be flexible in size. They might cover as few as five houses, a road or street of 20 to 50 homes, a block of flats, or even a larger area such as a hamlet, village or small town.

Volunteers are fully supported. One-to-one advice and guidance is provided to all new co-ordinators, along with free Neighbourhood Watch stickers, street signs and crime prevention information.

Val is encouraging anyone interested to take the first step:

• Visit www.ourwatch.org.uk and sign up

• Click on “Find my local NW” and use the postcode search to join an existing scheme or set up your own

• If no local scheme is visible, scroll down, map your road and submit an application to start a new one — Val will then be in touch

• Alternatively, contact Val directly to discuss setting up a scheme by emailing valpranddnhwatch@aol.com

“Come and join us in making it safer for you, your home, your family and your local community,” she adds.

With just a small time commitment each month, residents can play a big role in helping to make Aylesbury’s neighbourhoods safer in 2026.