Crime prevention is not just for the cities. Wychavon District Council is working hard to reduce crime and the fear of crime across its whole area. Here, Dave Hemming, Wychavon's community safety co-ordinator, explains just what is being done.

IN Wychavon crime is low - statistics really do show that the district is a safe place for people to live, work and visit.

"However, crime does still occur and for those people who are unfortunate enough to become victims of crime - particularly burglary - or are vulnerable, the "Safe and Sound" security scheme has been introduced.

"This is just one of the community safety initiatives taking place across the area, where approved home security systems are given to victims and vulnerable residents across the district, and installed at no charge."

The equipment being offered to crime victims and the vulnerable include door defender locks, alarms which are fitted and monitored by Worcester Care Line 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, door intercoms, spy holes and window locks.

"The perception of crime is sometimes higher than it should be and so Wychavon residents have received a leaflet informing them about the true crime figures for the area.

"Also included in the leaflet is a list of initiatives taking place on the ground to keep crime low and crime prevention tips for around the house.

"Even though crime is low, rural residents have as much right to expect this sort of service as residents living in the cities where crime is higher.

"In Wychavon, we're saying don't forget the victim - and the vulnerable - and are trying to make people feel less vulnerable. This is not just about the statutory agencies working together though.

"While I do work very closely with local police, I also work with voluntary groups such as Age Concern, Older People's Forums, Victim Support and Neighbourhood Watch."

He said that since the scheme started in May, more than 80 items of security equipment had been handed to Wychavon residents and he is looking to increase the equipment available for next year.

Wychavon District Council is currently carrying out an in-depth crime and disorder audit across the area in readiness for its three-year Community Safety Strategy, which begins next year.

Around 4,500 residents have already given their views about crime, disorder and drugs issues and Mr Hemming said that will help plan the next community safety strategy.

"Residents thought that a tough approach to those supplying drugs was a priority and another key area was to work more with young people," he said.

"As a result, target problem areas have been identified and police patrols stepped up and drug awareness sessions have been carried out in all four Wychavon high schools.

"A majority of residents weren't sure which service they would use if they needed help so fridge magnets were produced, showing useful telephone numbers that could be kept close at hand."

As part of the safety drive, a new community warden is now on the beat in Evesham.

Frances Haley joins Tim Tyler to make sure residents have peace of mind.

The duo cover the centre of the town as well as the Bengeworth and Rynal Place areas.

Their primary role is to improve the quality of life for Housing Association residents by acting as a link between the community and local services.

In Droitwich, Trevor Clark is the community safety warden and, like his colleagues in Evesham, he covers issues from housing management and community safety to improving the environment.

The wardens have been in place for a year now and have been welcomed by residents who have said: "Without the wardens, it would be a poorer community - they are always at the end of a phone."

Another resident said: "There's less vandalism - it's a valuable job and I feel the role is having a beneficial effect on the local community. The wardens have helped me because it's someone to talk to and they provide reassurance."

Although residents have passed on their views regarding community safety, Mr Hemming said more opinions were welcome.

"Residents can play their part on what issues should be tackled over the next three years," he said.

To have your say, or for more information about community safety initiatives, contact Dave Hemming on 01386 565301 or david.hemming@wychavon.gov.uk