We now have two Allotments in North East Lincolnshire registered and setup as Allotment Watch. These were experimental, so that we could work out what an Allotment Watch would really look like. Now we’ve got these successes to learn from, we want more! In fact, all Allotments across North East Lincolnshire are encouraged to join the scheme.
There’s a page of information here. Have a read.
It’s not complex. Once your committee or group decides they want to register as an Allotment Watch then we’ll add your name to the database and hand you some A4 signs and a pile of Allotment Watch window stickers (for sheds and greenhouses) which you can display around your site. A way to start warning others that the site is taking site security even more seriously.
Hopefully, you already have a good working relationship with your Neighbourhood Policing Team – we do too. We’re working with the Police to help share advice and good practices across all allotment sites.
As well as signage, we’ve helped both current sites access security equipment at wholesale prices; delivered scams materials and talks; looked at creation of incident diaries; and had talks about security with plot-holders. We don’t have any magic wands, but we can help you to talk on site about security and safety more and take some little steps that help make your site less appealing to the less honest visitors.
Contact me (Karl Elliott) to get a conversation going.
