They feel vulnerable

Suggested interventions:
 

• Reassure groups who feel themselves to be vulnerable, such as older people, disabled people, or black minority ethnic (BME) communities that they do not have to face their fears alone. Their fears should not be dismissed as irrational or silly, the fears exist and they need to be allayed.
• BME and gay/lesbian fears are not irrational as they are more vulnerable to some crimes such as hate crime. The first step is to develop positive policies which encourage the reporting of hate crimes and then take action against the perpetrators. Third party reporting centres as recommended by MacPherson research enables victims to report the crime to agencies other than the police, for example housing.
• Whenever possible, try and meet with vulnerable groups on a regular basis. Update them about what you are doing to tackle crime in and around their community and involve them where possible.
• Keep vulnerable groups informed about new initiatives which will benefit them and include any success stories in the local media to ensure they are aware of what is happening. Try to include them in finding local solutions to their issues.
• Promote a visible law enforcement presence on the streets, whether it’s a police officer or another member of the police extended family, such as a community support officer or a neighbourhood warden. These are seen as an important symbol of reassurance.
• Encourage vulnerable groups to take common sense precautions which will help reduce the risk of them becoming a victim of crime and give them a sense that they are not powerless. Look at our postcards for some top tips on how to stay safe in certain situations http://www.crimereduction.gov.uk/toolkits/fc0801.htm.
• Ensure that crime reporting facilities such as police stations are made easily accessible and non-threatening to vulnerable groups. Those groups, such as older people and disabled people need to be reassured of their safety, but also assured that prompt and appropriate action will be taken.
• Go to http://www.helptheaged.org.uk for information on Help the Aged’s Senior Safety Services, including the HandyVan scheme and Senior Link.
• Go to http://www.suzylamplugh.org for advice on raising people’s awareness about personal safety.
• Go to http://www.disability.gov.uk for information on a wide range of topics which could benefit disabled people.