Communication and Working Together

Effective communication and cooperation are essential to the success of every Community Watch scheme. Members who work together, share information and support one another help create safer, stronger and more resilient neighbourhoods.

 

Scheme Coordinator

Each scheme should have a Coordinator, who acts as the main point of contact for the group. Their responsibilities include:

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• Keeping members informed about relevant crime, anti‑social behaviour and local issues.

• Providing advice on matters affecting members and responding to concerns raised.

• Contacting the Police, Council or partner agencies when issues require escalation.

• Supporting community cohesion by encouraging neighbourliness and promoting care for one another.

• Liaising with Trustees, partners and other groups to ensure effective communication.

 

Coordinators play a key role in helping schemes operate smoothly and in line with our standards of conduct.

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Building Relationships

Strong relationships with neighbours and local policing teams help promote safety, trust and confidence. Friendly, regular contact encourages people to look out for one another and strengthens the sense of community.

 

Sharing Information

Sharing crime‑prevention advice and relevant information helps make homes and neighbourhoods more resilient to crime and anti‑social behaviour. Coordinators and members may choose to:

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• Hold regular meetings

• Set up a WhatsApp group or similar communication channel

• Share updates, alerts and prevention advice

• Encourage neighbours to report concerns promptly

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These activities help ensure everyone stays informed and connected.

 

Working With the Police

Providing information to the police can help prevent crime and support investigations. This may include:

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• Reporting suspicious behaviour

• Sharing CCTV or doorbell footage

• Passing on relevant observations from the community

 

Members should only share information that is lawful, appropriate and in line with our data protection guidance.

 

 

Guidance on Managing Volunteer Behaviour

All members must uphold the Nolan Principles and ensure that Luton Community Watch’s reputation as a charity is protected. As a registered charity, we are required to follow the Charity Commission’s guidance on governance and conduct.

Coordinators may occasionally encounter disagreements or differences of opinion within their group. Where this occurs:

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• Members may vote to decide the outcome of a group issue

• Coordinators should remind members of the need to follow the Nolan Principles

• Serious breaches of conduct may result in a member being asked to leave, in line with our behaviour management process

 

Our aim is always to resolve issues constructively, fairly and in the best interests of the community.