The MEC of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, has launched the new Neighbourhood Watch brand in George, whilst participating in a panel discussion on the importance of Neighbourhood Watches.

The brand launch forms part of the Department’s efforts to professionalise Neighbourhood Watches so as to increase community participation, create safer neighbourhoods, and increase perceptions of safety within communities.

The professionalisation of Neighbourhood Watches started in 2013 through the Western Cape Community Safety Act (WCCSA).

Section 6 of the Act, which deals with the Accreditation and Support of Neighbourhood Watches gives recognition to the efforts of Neighbourhood Watches and acknowledges the value of their presence in communities.

“The introduction of our new brand shows our commitment to changing the old positioning and stigmas of the Neighbourhood Watch. The launch aims to create safer neighbourhoods and increase perceptions of safety in communities.”