Press Release: Neighbourhood Support (Auckland City) Inc

We need confidence in the Justice system AND confidence in ourselves

Neighbourhood Support Auckland is kicking off a recruitment drive with the message that, in order to rebuild confidence in the justice sector, communities need to own and participate in crime prevention and detection activities.

Neighbourhood Support Auckland It may come as a surprise that in recent polls the majority of respondents had little confidence in the Justice system (http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/411749/2031413).

Although the reasons for this may be complex, the answer to restoring that confidence can often be simple – become involved. The sooner we realise that we are all part of the "system" and that we must take responsibility for crime in our communities, the better. At Neighbourhood Support we do just that. We encourage neighbours to get to know each other by forming friendly “street groups” that act locally with police and other organisations to prevent crime in their area.

Our members have a close working relationship with their local community constables and other police and soon come to realise they can have great confidence in the hard work they do. Our groups are inclusive and welcome all people concerned about crime and neighbourhood safety. Not only does this reduce crime, but the friendliness and companionship reduces the fear of crime and can restore confidence. In other words, the system as a whole will work well if you play your part.

“It's important that people and communities maintain or regain confidence in the system," says Kevin Hicks, Chairperson of Neighbourhood Support Auckland.

“Every day hard-working members of the police, social development and the justice systems are doing their bit to prevent, detect and punish crime, but people must realise that the system works best if we also do our part. Confidence in the system may mean doing something as simple as choosing to report a crime or incident and, as a consequence, saving someone’s life or property. Being a member of a support group can give you the confidence you need to do it.

There are many ways to become involved by joining your local Neighbourhood Support Network. You could contribute by becoming a trusted neighbourhood advocate promoting safety and strategies to reduce crime. A recruitment drive for volunteers throughout Auckland has started. We are offering comprehensive training and are working closely with the police and local community groups. If this sounds like you, please email bernice@neighbourhoodsupport.com or phone 027 202 1843. You can also register or donate on our website www.auckland.neighbourhoodsupport.com or sponsor us by contacting Kevin - kevin@neighbourhoodsupportcom or ph 027 313 8382.

Above all, Neighbourhood Support believes that “together we can make a difference to people’s lives”.

 
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