Initiative helps promote neighbourhood safety

Safer neighbourhoods together.

That’s the motivation behind a joint initiative spearheaded by the Waimāero Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board.

The Board has been working with Police, North Christchurch Community Patrol, Ilam Electorate MP Sarah Pallet and Canterbury Neighbourhood Support to promote awareness of steps people can take to help them feel safe in their neighbourhoods.

While Avonhead and Russley were the two initial focus areas, Board Chair Bridget Williams now hopes to see the program rolled out in other suburbs around the city.

“One of the key things we’ve been working on is raising awareness about the network of neighbourhood support groups in these areas and growing their membership so people feel more connected and are looking out for each other.

“We’ve also been looking to stress the importance of reporting crimes, no matter how minor, through the proper channels.”

The Avonhead/Russley Safety Initiative came about after feedback from residents showed people felt there had been an increase in house and vehicle break-ins in the Avonhead/Russley area.

Following a survey completed by around 500 residents, a community safety booklet was produced and delivered to all households in the Avonhead/Russley area.

A short, five minute video has also been made which provides residents with feedback about the results of the survey, as well as introducing the local agencies that can provide support.

“We’ll continue to work with the Christchurch North Community Patrol to increase the number of patrols in the Avonhead/Russley area and encourage local residents to consider becoming a Community Patrol volunteer,” says Ms Williams.

“This has been a collaborative and effective project which has brought different agencies together with a common goal to improve safety in our communities.”