Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust has free home security measures for people living in 10 areas of Wiltshire and Swindon identified as being at a high risk of crime.
People aged over 60 and those with a disability who are over 18 can apply for a home visit as part of a Safer Streets initiative launched in partnership with Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson.
He successfully bid for almost £1 million from the Home Office a range of Safer Streets projects.
Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust Director Jennie Shaw said: “We are very thankful to Mr Wilkinson and for the support of Wiltshire Police with this initiative.
"It will help us bring targeted, helpful advice and practical measures to keep people safe in the areas where it is most needed.
“The fear of crime can often be very much worse than crime itself so anything that makes people feel safer and more secure in their own homes is a very good thing.”
The 10 areas have been identified as being at priority areas for burglary. They are:
Swindon: Pinehurst West, The Bungalows and Doris Archer Court; Stokesay Drive and Stamford Close; Okus East, Glenwood Close; Farringdon Road, including Theobald Street, Chester Street, Maxwell Street and Tennyson Street and Westmead South, Thornford Drive.
Wiltshire: Warminster West, Haygrove Close and Masefield Road; Tisbury, Fovant, Sutton Mandeville and Swallowcliffe, Squalls Lane, Nadders Lane, The Avenue and Overhouse Drive; Downton and Whiteparish, Green Close and Highlands Way; Chalke Valley; Salisbury St Martin Alabare Place, Barnard Street, Love Lane and Dolphin Street.
The home visits will be carried out by the Wiltshire Bobby Van’s operators, who are former police officers. They will pass on home security tips and advice and can upgrade locks and fit window locks, door viewers or door chains.
The operators will also carry out a fire risk assessment and can fit carbon monoxide monitors and smoke alarms on behalf of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.
People in private rented accommodation are eligible and families can nominate relatives living in the highlighted areas, as long as they have their permission.
Police and Crime Commissioner Mr Wilkinson said: “This focus on prevention backs the work of Wiltshire Police as they get tough on offenders, reducing the number of innocent people becoming victims.
“By using this funding from Government efficiently and effectively, working in partnership, we will see projects that make a positive difference in these areas, delivering the priorities in my Police and Crime Plan to reduce violence and serious harm and to tackle crimes that matter to local communities.”
To find out more about eligibility or arrange a visit, people can call 01225 256867 or email [email protected] by October 24.
They can find out more about the work of the charity at wiltshirebobbyvan.org.uk.
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