#BurglaryAftercare

[hillingdontoday]

'Project Palisade' launched to Safeguard Elderly victims of burglary

In a bid to enhance the support system for elderly victims of burglary, detectives in west London have rolled out a pioneering project called 'Project Palisade.' This groundbreaking initiative involves a collaborative effort between the police, local council, and the NHS to ensure comprehensive assistance is available to seniors affected by burglary. Under the project, a range of services are offered to victims, ranging from police officers connecting with organizations like AgeUK for emotional support to facilitating referrals to the council for the installation of new alarms or locks. These measures are designed to help victims regain a sense of security following the traumatic experience of a burglary. The project also focuses on proactive crime prevention by raising awareness within the community. Police officers actively engage with the public at various venues, disseminating information about the modus operandi of criminals who often target the elderly. Bespoke leaflets containing preventive advice are distributed at key locations such as GP surgeries and pharmacies to educate residents on safeguarding their homes. Authorities acknowledge the prevalence of organized criminal groups targeting older individuals who live alone. The criminals often exploit the trust of their victims by impersonating trusted figures, such as employees from utility services. These deceitful acts are commonly executed in proximity to roadworks or water repairs, adding an element of authenticity to their schemes. In an innovative move, 'Project Palisade' has forged a partnership with Thames Water to access information about planned roadworks across West London. Neighbourhood police teams utilize this data to deploy strategically to these areas, warning residents about the potential risks associated with criminal activities, especially those involving impersonation near ongoing road repairs. This collaborative effort not only seeks to provide immediate support to victims but also aims to create a safer environment by preemptively addressing the root causes of such crimes. 'Project Palisade' stands as a commendable example of inter-agency cooperation in the ongoing fight against crimes targeting vulnerable members of the community. Detective Inspector Tom Collins, who set up the project, said: “The impact of burglaries on anyone – but especially the elderly community who often live alone – cannot be underestimated. We know that their trauma does not end when the burglary is over but rather it often leaves them feeling anxious, depressed and unable to feel safe in their homes again. “Investigating these crimes is paramount but we should not overlook the emotional trauma caused and we must play our part in helping tackle this. Our partners have been fundamental in providing the aftercare needed and we will continue to work together in this victim-focused way.” #CommunitySafety #ProjectPalisade #ProjectPalisade #ElderlySupport #BurglaryAftercare #CrimePrevention #PolicePartnership #NHSCollaboration #SafetyAwareness #ThamesWaterAlliance #VictimSupport #PreventiveMeasures #NeighborhoodSafety #ProjectAwareness #SafeCommunities #InteragencyCooperation Read the full article