Helping hand so victims of crime can feel secure at home

12.10.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 1st Jul 2008

• BOROUGH residents affected by domestic abuse or hate crime are reminded that the Safety First Scheme is one of a range of options that can help them stay securely in their homes.

The scheme aims to reduce the fear of being a crime victim by boosting home security. The scheme is available across all types of tenure, including registered social landlords, private rented and owner-occupied accommodation. It offers free security improvements such as replacement doors and door and window locks. Installation of a Careline alarm (linked to the Council's call centre to allow rapid response 24 hours, 365 days a year), is also offered free for the first six months. Other supports include referrals to specialist domestic abuse services, advice on personal safety from a Police Crime Prevention Officer and guidance from London Fire Brigade on home fire safety. The scheme is jointly run by Richmond Council's Housing Services and Richmond Police's Community Safety Unit. People can be referred to the scheme by local agencies such as the Ethnic Minorities Advocacy Group (EMAG), Police, refuges, local housing associations and Richmond Council's Housing Services, Social Services, Welcare and Victim Support.

Cllr Denise Carr, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing on Richmond Council, said: "Safety First was launched in October 2003 and many people have benefited. But we want to remind everyone that the service is available and that it can provide great security benefits. It is important that victims of domestic violence and hate crime are supported to remain in their own homes if they want to and the scheme helps them to feel safe enough to do this. Victims should not have to move away from family and friends or risk becoming homeless."