News
April 24, 2024 - Tool theft a growing problem in Western Bay
Tool thefts continue to be a growing problem across the region, according to Police and Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support, with building and construction sites and work vehicles - sometimes parked at home - targeted.
Tauranga Police Inspector Zane Smith says the thefts create frustration, unnecessary down time, and lead to tradies having to buy new tools or pay insurance excess to replace their tools.
“Police encourage you to mark your tools for identification,” he said. “While some people mark tools to identify your tools on a site when multiple people use the same type of tools, this is often not enough for us to reunite your tools with their rightful owner.
“We ask you to consider marking them with your driver licence number, or construction companies can engrave company names and phone numbers.”
He says a driver licence is unique, routinely carried with you, and can help Police identify you as the owner of tools Police find.
Tools are often targeted to be sold on or traded at low prices, and it’s often harder for them to be on-sold or traded when it’s clear the seller is not the owner.
“A person who buys property knowing that it’s probably stolen can be arrested for receiving stolen property. Most thieves won't take something that they can’t on-sell or trade. By taking tools that are marked with a unique identifier the thief risks getting caught with the stolen item or no one wanting it.
“In my time working in Police there have been many occasions where we have come across property which is clearly stolen but cannot find the rightful owner. It is a frustrating process to go through potentially having to return stolen property to the thief or receiver because we can’t find the rightful owner.
“Tools marked with paint or initials don’t give Police sufficient details to enable us to find the owner.”
He said handy tips and tricks were available online about how to mark tools, including printing a sticker with the details and then tracking over the detail with an engraving tool.
“Securing your tools and engraving them with your driver licence number reduces the chance of them being targeted and dramatically increases the chance of them being recovered and the thief being held accountable.”
Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb said the group worked closely with Police in preventing crime, and urged tradies, builders and tool users at home to follow Police advice. April is Prevention Month for Neighbourhood Support New Zealand.
“We know how frustrating it can be to have to replace expensive tools, and to hear that vehicles are being targeted at home is especially worrying. If you’re not already part of Neighbourhood Support, join us at https://www.wbopns.org.nz/joinus.
“It’s free and means you’ll have your neighbours also keeping an eye on what’s going on in your street. We know that there’s less crime in streets where Neighbourhood Support street signs are up and members actively know their neighbours.”
April 22, 2024 - Get to know neighbours for a safer, friendlier city
Want to get to know your neighbours - and your city - better?
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is keen to find more volunteer Area Coordinators, and help make the city more friendly, connected and safer. It has about 14,500 member families around the city, but needs more people to volunteer to take on Street and Area Coordinator roles, particularly in Tauranga South.
Neighbourhood Support works closely with Police and other organisations to build strong communities by reducing crime, improving safety and preparing to deal with emergencies and disasters. Volunteer Street Coordinators gather contact details for their street’s residents and keep in touch with neighbours. Area Coordinators help develop new street groups, recruiting Street Coordinators and assisting them with resources.
Dave Hodge is Area Coordinator for Ōtumoetai. A former police officer now in IT, he enjoys signing up new Street Coordinators - residents who keep lists of members in their own street.
“It’s an opportunity to meet new people and find out their backgrounds and how they interact with their communities. I also maintain communications with Street Coordinators and pass updates to the database administrator.
“It’s very fulfilling. Sometimes it takes a day a month, sometimes a few days a month. Depends on demand, but it’s always something I find time for. I also volunteer for our fundraisers and community events.
“I've always had a drive to help people and give back to the community. Volunteering for NS was a great way to get involved. I get a sense of community involvement, meet new people and create friendships, contact with emergency services and other like-minded community people and organisations.”
Linda Thompson is Area Coordinator for Ōmanu, and has been a Neighbourhood Support member for several decades.
“Neighbourhood Support connects provides that sense of community that has eroded over time as people get busy with work. I’m also a Street Coordinator.” A semi-retired journalist, she enjoys finding new Street Coordinators and helping them connect with their neighbours. They can be from any background, working full time, retired, stay-at-home parents.
“I have Street Coordinators of all ages, from young mums to a lively woman in her 80s, who are enjoying meeting neighbours, often for the first time. Having brief street meetings with our Community Constable as groups set up is very rewarding, seeing neighbours get to know each other.”
Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb says becoming an Area Coordinator is a great opportunity to get to know your neighbourhood and to do something positive for your neighbours.
“You can be instrumental in helping them to achieve positive improvements in their lives. Linda helped one of her street groups to run a plant swap. I helped some neighbours set up their own group to improve their area by planting more natives and to understand about pest eradication.
“There are so many opportunities - shared gardens, joint garage sales, getting together for barbecues or coffee. One group hosted an afternoon tea and 58 people turned up!”
If you can spare a little time to get to know your neighbours and create a connected city by becoming an Area Coordinator, contact manager@wbopns.org.nz
Sirens, ice cream and plenty of fun!
November 20, 2023 - Sirens and Services day defies wet odds
The rain poured down on Sunday - but despite the bad weather Neighbourhood Support Western Bay of Plenty's Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day at Gordon Spratt Reserve was an enormous success.
Manager Bruce Banks said people began pouring into the venue even before it opened to see displays by Police, Fire, Ambulance, Search and Rescue, HeretohelpU, Rotary, Community Patrol, Fisheries and Tauranga City Council’s emergency management team. About 1500 people attended. The event was funded by Tauranga City Council.
The families, from all over Tauranga and with many children in tow, brought in more than 1200 food items for the Pāpāmoa Food Hub, and also donated more than $700 in cash. For each donation children received a ticket to get an ice cream and then decorate it with as many sprinkles, sauce, wafers and lollies as they could fit.
So many were served - more than 500 - that organisers had to dash to the supermarket to re-stock as they’d gone through more than 40 litres of ice cream. Families also made the most of an Indian food provider and Neighbourhood Support’s barbecue trailer for lunch.
Bruce said many people also volunteered to help with the Emergency Services Food Drives on November 28 in Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa on December 5, and for the new Pāpāmoa Food Hub.
Comments on local Facebook pages were effusive: “We loved it! Thank you.” “Was fabulous! Thank you so very much for all your time and effort and dedication. The enjoyment you gave us so generously. A victorious day I trust for everyone, salute our community Pāpāmoa.”
Bruce said Neighbourhood Support was grateful for all the support shown by the community on a very wet day. The day was designed to demonstrate community safety initiatives, and it hoped to hold more in other parts of the city over the next year.
“We’re very grateful for the many businesses which supported the event, including Pak’nSave, Tip Top and Kiwi Fresh Meats. Our event organiser Rebecca Larsen did a fantastic job bringing it all together, and we never would have been able to run the day without so many volunteers.
“Our aim was to bring communities together and show all the ways they can work together to keep themselves safe, and despite all the rain it was a great success.”
October 31 - Pāpāmoa neighbours gather to rescue food hub
About 40 Pāpāmoa residents and those from further afield gathered at Golden Sands Baptist Church to discuss how to establish a new Pāpāmoa Food Hub to support the community.
The idea comes from Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support Pāpāmoa Area Coordinator Bruce Banks and follows the sudden closure of the Anglican-operated Pāpāmoa Family Services at the end of September. The service had run out of the Hartford Ave site since 2010 when it took over the Community Support Centre in Domain Rd in 2002.
Bruce said it was imperative that the community retain the services, so a lot of work needed to be done quickly. The emergency services and Neighbourhood Support food drive which collects more than 50 trailer loads of food is due to run on December 5.
He told the meeting that the food hub would provide food parcels, care packages and run cooking classes to encourage independence for struggling families. The new entity would be established with assistance from Neighbourhood Support, SociaLink and other organisations, eventually forming its own Trust.
The aim would be to engage with clients, teaching free cooking classes and sending out recipes with food parcels. The hub would also put clients in touch
with helping agencies to improve their situation and move them to independence.
The organisation would be volunteer based, forming an initial committee, seeking funding, establishing a legal entity and seeking charitable status. It would need to establish business relationships, and establish local food rescue partnerships “for Pāpāmoa people, by Pāpāmoa people”, Bruce said.
He said it had been offered rental space at the church, but at a cost. It would also have ‘neighbours’ at the church to provide community support to families, which would be referred to the Hub by local agencies. The project would need an annual budget of about $50,000 and Bruce offered the first $1000 himself.
There would be a givealittle page set up, and many other kinds of support were needed, such as website design, legal help, cooks, shelving, storage , freezers and refrigeration and access to local food supplies.
A new committee would be set up from people who have volunteered their time and many more people than were at the meeting had expressed interest, he said.
Anyone interested in being part of the committee, or volunteering for the project to do one of the many jobs available can contact Bruce at nspapamoa@wbopns.org.nz or phone 027 271 3772.
June 14, 2023- Neighbours herd together when donkeys and sheep go walkabout
Out of the gate and off for a walk went Lucy and Heidi the donkeys and their two sheep friends. Much to the alarm of a group of neighbours in Bellevue recently.
The Tauranga city neighbours found knowing their neighbours through Neighbourhood Support helped herd the wayward donkeys and their sheep friends back home.
The neighbours were alerted by Neighbour No 1 who had been asleep following a busy night shift at the hospital, and spotted the escapees out the window.
She immediately ran, barefoot in her pyjamas out to the gate, to try to stop Lucy, Heidi and the two sheep from getting into the street. Too late - the wandering mates were on a mission.
She ran back inside to get shoes (and bra and jersey) so she could chase them properly, and alerted Neighbour No. 2 to phone the owners of the animals. Lucy, Heidi and the sheep continued their unplanned journey while neighbours No. 1 and 2 continued to try unsuccessfully to connect with the owners.
Neighbour No. 3 was holding a birthday party for her son when a relative looked out the window to see donkeys and sheep browsing neighbourhood gardens. Mum and dad raced out the door and tried to herd them back.
In the meantime Neighbour No. 4 was phoned to locate the strolling stock’s owners and Neighbours No. 1 and 3 took up herding. Neighbour No. 4 blocked off the main road to the west and was joined by Neighbour No. 5 who happened to be walking along the road.
Neighbour No. 2 continued phoning, and also videoed the neighbours running around like, well, headless chickens. Eventually they got them back through the gate, just as their owner came walking up their long drive to see what all the fuss was about.
Neighbourhood Support Street Coordinator Kathy Webb says Lucy and Heidi are well known to the wider neighbourhood, and live on a large lifestyle block in the area.
“They are delightful and fairly stubborn donkeys, and are sometimes walked around the neighbourhood by their owners for some weight reducing exercise. It’s so nice to hear the gentle sound of the country in suburbia - chooks chatting, sheep baaing - although the donkey song is more like squeaky machinery.
“Our urban neighbourhood has a reasonable amount of traffic, so the dangers of donkeys and sheep running around is significant, not to mention the damage that could be done to property. The surprise factor alone could create a problem,” she says.
Lucy, Heidi and the sheep are now safely locked in their paddock after their little adventure. A gate had been accidently left open and the curious quartet had taken their chance to see the world.
“Five neighbours had a short sharp exercise session, involving running, zig zagging, shouting and a lot of puffing,” Kathy says. “It’s great to know that we live in a neighbourhood that pulls together to help in times of need. Free avocados for all neighbours were delivered as thanks for rounding up the wanderers.”
To get to know your neighbours - herding stock not included - contact manager@wbopns.org.nz
February 22, 2023 - Residents feel safer with Neighbourhood Support’s smoke alarms
Some Pāpāmoa residents are feeling safer in their homes now they have brand new 10-year smoke alarms installed by Neighbourhood Support volunteers.
Working with Fire and Emergency, Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support has installed 260 smoke alarms in 85 homes - and there are more to come.
Neighbourhood Support launched a Givealittle campaign in September to get smoke alarms installed in more homes, working with FENZ and its own volunteers to do the installations.The pilot programme will be completed by the end of March, with a plan to roll it out regionally and possibly nationally.
On the first day the campaign was launched more than 150 people signed up for the first 500 alarms, so the first installations went to the most in need - the elderly and young families.
Brian Peters, 88, and his wife Vivienne had alarms installed in their Shire Place home by Fire Safety Champion volunteers Ron Judd, a Community Patrol volunteer, and Geoff Russell, a Neighbourhood Support Street Coordinator and former ambulance officer and tour guide. Geoff provides some fire safety tips while Ron does the installation.
He talks to the recipients about developing an escape plan and explains that alarms are fitted near doors so people can crawl towards the sound when their house is full of smoke. It takes less than three minutes for a home to fill with smoke, and people can’t smell smoke when they’re asleep.
Geoff warns about fire risks from leaving cooking unattended, electric blankets, and charging phones and laptops.
Bruce and Denise Armstrong have new long-life alarms in their Franks Way home. Bruce uses a walker and is concerned about getting out safely in a fire.
“We’re feeling safer now,” Denise says.
Neighbourhood Support manager Bruce Banks says those who have had the alarms installed are grateful for the campaign. It’s also led to some funny moments.
One man was watching an alarm being installed in his garage when the newly installed one in his kitchen went off. He’d left his lunch cooking on the stove and it burnt.
“We’re happy to help people be safer in their homes - but we also hope they never have to hear their alarm go off at all.” Neighbourhood Support is hoping to extend the programme beyond Pāpāmoa.
Geoff talks safety with Brian Peters. Rod and Geoff and a happy Brian. Rod, Geoff with Bruce and Denise
September 15, 2022 - Community a vital partner in preventing crime
The community is a vital partner in preventing crime, the Annual General meeting of Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support heard this week.
Host of television’s Police Ten-7, Rob Lemoto, a Detective previously based in Pāpāmoa, said staying connected “100 percent works” in stopping crime and ensuring people feel safe in their homes and out and about in the city.
"The less we tolerate and the more we report, the better off we’ll be,"he said.
Lemoto is now working in organised crime targeting gangs and those trying to maintain a living from crime, and police had recently caught someone bringing in commercial quantities of methamphetamine into the Bay of Plenty, because they were proactively targeting these people.
He said his prime job was identifying people involved in crime, and police often relied on their communities to provide them with information. He had previously worked in child protection dealing with specific crimes against children, several which occurred due to neglect, ignorance and drugs.
"We have investigated several incidents of serious crime lately and all these crimes were a build-up from other anti-social behaviour, including driving without seatbelts, doing burnouts, thefts. If we had known and taken action regarding these behaviours earlier we may have been able to prevent more crime."
He urged people to take an active interest in their neighbourhood as they were the ones who essentially helped to keep them crime free.
With younger parents now often both working, people were reliant on neighbours to keep an eye out for unusual activity such as unknown cars or strange behaviour in their street.
“What do you do with that information? Do you have the confidence to speak to your Street or Area Coordinator? Sharing this information about what’s happening in your area goes a long way to preventing crime.”
He said youth crime had always been around - he had stolen apples himself as a child - but the concerning trend of children out at 3am stealing and committing ram raids meant police needed to be able to engage with the parents and families of those committing these offences.
Lemoto grew up in South Auckland and his Tongan father kept the children busy with sport and activities, so he didn’t realise he had grown up in a “rough” neighbourhood until he joined the police and saw the amount of crime that was actually occurring there.
"Realistically the buck stops at home. Being a parent is hard work and we need parents to attend Family Group Conferences if their children get into trouble."
"There is now more help than ever before for parents who are struggling with their kids committing crimes, but parents need to stay connected to their kids, know what they’re up to and set boundaries.
"We want our whānau to be able to go out into the community without feeling threatened or intimidated by groups of youth behaving in an anti-social manner or committing crime."
He said that Police would continue to hold those who commit crime to account for their actions by identifying them and placing them before the relevant judiciary, but ultimately it was the justice system which decided on the punishment.
August 16, 2022 - Neighbourhood Support encourages families to join
Another “scary” stranger entering a Bethlehem home last week has prompted Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support to encourage more families to join the organisation to keep neighbours informed.
On Wednesday Bethlehem resident Olivia Fairhurst was working from home when she heard a voice call out from her dining room. But she was greeted by a complete stranger, she said.
The “scary” man talked about cleaning her windows and didn’t leave when she made it clear she didn’t want the job done.
Fairhurst posted about the incident on the local community Facebook group so that she could help people stay safe.
But Tauranga households concerned about crime and home invasions in their neighbourhoods could join Neighbourhood Support to help protect themselves and their neighbours, the organisation’s manager says.
If families were members of a group they could notify their Street Coordinator quickly and get the word out to other neighbours quickly, manager Bruce Banks said.
In June about 50 people met in Bethlehem to discuss a series of home invasions where people reported having burglars enter their homes, and steal handbags, credit cards and other items.
Banks said about 15,000 families were already members of the organisation throughout the Western Bay, with signs and stickers in their streets advertising it was a Neighbourhood Support area.
The organisation works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places, he said.
“We know that areas where there are Street Groups have less crime than those that don’t. Criminals see the signs and know that people will be watching them.
“We are close partners with Police, and crime prevention is still a major part of our kaupapa, even though we haven’t been called Neighbourhood Watch for more than a decade,” he said.
The organisation had Street Groups throughout the Western Bay with Street and Area Coordinators where neighbours got to know each other and were kept up to date with any crime in their area with fortnightly newsletters.
“Neighbourhood Support ensures people get to know who lives near them, and people keep an eye on unusual activity in their street, helping each other keep safe and supporting those who are elderly or live alone.
“We encourage everyone to join - it’s free and is a proven way to prevent crime. People can sign up for free at www.wbopns.org.nz/joinus.”
July 11, 2022 - Most Tauranga residents feel safe in their neighbourhoods
Most Tauranga residents who are members of Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support feel safe in their neighbourhoods, according to a survey.
The organisation asked its members to respond to a survey about their perception of safety in their area. Of the 523 responses received, 443 or 85 percent said they knew their neighbours and felt safe.
Another 32 said they would like to be part of a Street Group, and 36 said they were happy even though they didn’t have a Street Group in their area.The majority, 253, said they knew who their street coordinator was.
Only nine respondents said they didn’t know anyone in their street.
Many had positive responses to Neighbourhood Support in their area.
“When we were isolating our Street Coordinator kept contact and invited people to ask for help, as needed. Just keep up the great communication.”
“Neighbourhood Support is keeping our Street Coordinator promptly informed about issues relating to our immediate neighbourhood.”
“Our co-ordinator is very good at keeping us up to date with what's going on in our community and the four coordinators work together for the benefit of our two streets.”
Others said their area was very active, sharing excess fruit and plants and keeping in touch with a street Facebook page, and looking after each other.
One however jokingly suggested Neighbourhood Support could “supply machine gun and ammo for use on high-speed cars”.
Respondents indicated they’d be keen to take a more active part in Neighbourhood support, with 148 offering their time. Another 122 said they didn’t have time but would be happy to donate financially.
Responses came from Pāpāmoa (251), Tauranga (135), Mount Maunganui (80) and Tauranga South (54).
Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb said the survey showed those who were members felt a stronger connection to their neighbourhoods and felt safer.
“We’re keen to see more Street Coordinators and Area Coordinators volunteer. Being a Street Coordinator doesn’t require a lot of time and you get to know your neighbours.
“It’s free to join and we have more than 14,000 member families in Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa.”
June 13, 2022 - Join Neighbourhood Support to protect against crime
Tauranga households concerned about crime and home invasions in their neighbourhoods could join Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support to help protect themselves and their neighbours, the organisation’s Chair says.
About 50 people met in Bethlehem on Saturday to discuss a series of home invasions where people reported having burglars enter their homes, and steal handbags, credit cards and other items.
The meeting was attended by Neighbourhood Support’s Chair and Deputy Chair, Western Bay MP Todd Muller, and representatives from Community Patrol and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb said about 15,000 families were already members of the organisation throughout the Western Bay, with signs and stickers in their streets advertising it was a Neighbourhood Support area.
The organisation works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places, she said.
“We know that areas where there are Street Groups have less crime than those that don’t. Criminals see the signs and know that people will be watching them.
“We are close partners with Police, and crime prevention is still a major part of our kaupapa, even though we haven’t been called Neighbourhood Watch for more than a decade,” she said.
The organisation had Street Groups throughout the Western Bay with Street and Area Coordinators where neighbours got to know each other and were kept up to date with any crime in their area with fortnightly newsletters.
“Neighbourhood Support ensures people get to know who lives near them, and people keep an eye on unusual activity in their street, helping each other keep safe and supporting those who are elderly or live alone.
“We encourage everyone to join - it’s free and is a proven way to prevent crime. People can sign up for free at www.wbopns.org.nz/joinus.”
July 11, 2022- Most Tauranga residents feel safe in their neighbourhoods
Most Tauranga residents who are members of Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support feel safe in their neighbourhoods, according to a survey.
The organisation asked its members to respond to a survey about their perception of safety in their area. Of the 523 responses received, 443 or 85 percent said they knew their neighbours and felt safe.
Another 32 said they would like to be part of a Street Group, and 36 said they were happy even though they didn’t have a Street Group in their area. The majority, 253, said they knew who their street coordinator was.
Only nine respondents said they didn’t know anyone in their street.
Many had positive responses to Neighbourhood Support in their area.
“When we were isolating our Street Coordinator kept contact and invited people to ask for help, as needed. Just keep up the great communication.”
“Neighbourhood Support is keeping our Street Coordinator promptly informed about issues relating to our immediate neighbourhood.”
“Our co-ordinator is very good at keeping us up to date with what's going on in our community and the four coordinators work together for the benefit of our two streets.”
Others said their area was very active, sharing excess fruit and plants and keeping in touch with a street Facebook page, and looking after each other.
One however jokingly suggested Neighbourhood Support could “supply machine gun and ammo for use on high-speed cars”.
Respondents indicated they’d be keen to take a more active part in Neighbourhood support, with 148 offering their time. Another 122 said they didn’t have time but would be happy to donate financially.
Responses came from Pāpāmoa (251), Tauranga (135), Mount Maunganui (80) and Tauranga South (54).
Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb said the survey showed those who were members felt a stronger connection to their neighbourhoods and felt safer.
“We’re keen to see more Street Coordinators and Area Coordinators volunteer. Being a Street Coordinator doesn’t require a lot of time and you get to know your neighbours.
“It’s free to join and we have more than 14,000 member families in Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa.”
Our Zoom discussion on strengthening communities
We had a great turnout to our discussion forum on Wednesday 16 March via Zoom., with more than 30 taking part. If you missed it, the discussion is now on You Tube.
The video is 1 hour 20 mins long so if you want to get straight to the speakers, here’s the timetable:
Introductions - who is present
26 mins 30 sec - Tess Casey CEO of Neighbourhood Support NZ
38 mins: 45 sec - Paul Mason - Tauranga City Council - link to the Vital Update reports which give information about different suburbs and the whole city. Read it here:
1 hour: 05 mins 43 sec - Feedback from break-out groups.
March 15 - Neighbourhood Support brings communities together
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is working with community leaders and its street coordinators to build more resilient communities in the region.
It held a Zoom conference this week with representatives from Police, Fire Service, Age Concern, Rise Up Tauranga, disability representatives, council staff and street coordinators to find out what it could do to build resilience and safer communities.
Chair Kathy Webb said the organisation had moved from a crime “watchdog” to a more community-focused network. It worked in partnership with Police, Fire Service, emergency responders and wanted to maximise these relationships to add value and expand its network..
Neighbourhood Support New Zealand Chief Executive Tess Casey said what makes the organisation tick is “connectedness”. People who knew each other were more likely to offer and accept help when it was needed.
Groups throughout the country were thinking about how they wanted to work together, from just getting to know each other to tackling a street project, and finding out who might need help or was isolated.
Safety and Resilience Advisor for Tauranga City Council Paul Mason said the Vital Update survey by the council drilled into neighbourhoods and covered social isolation, what people wanted more of and safety and child welfare and covered the broadest spectrum of the community.
Smaller groups at the Zoom conference discussed ideas for improving their neighbourhoods. Suggestions included working more closely with other community groups such as community centres, having a skills register to know who had a chainsaw or could help with tasks, building on their street’s strengths.
Other suggestions included more community barbecues, get-togethers for fire safety or police sessions, getting younger people involved as street coordinators to draw in young families and setting up kai swap pantries for produce.
Neighbourhood Support will collate all the ideas and distribute them through their newsletters and social media. It is also planning more Zoom meetings to exchange ideas.
March 8 - Neighbourhood Support brings agencies together
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is bringing community leaders together this month to help build resilience through neighbourhood groups.
It has organised a Zoom gathering of its coordinators and a variety of community stakeholders on March 16 to discuss what actions communities want in their neighbourhoods.
Invitations have been sent to Police, Community Patrols, Victim Support, Age Concern, Community Advisory Bureau, Māori leaders, Tauranga City Council staff, Emergency Management, Family Violence responders and its own street and area coordinators.
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support Chair Kathy Webb said key questions to be discussed included what people think is important in their neighbourhoods.
“How can we change and preserve our neighbourhoods and what would we like to see in our neighbourhoods? We’d like to know what people think about where they live so we can offer the right sort of help,” she said.
Neighbourhood Support works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places.
The Zoom conference is on March 16 at 4.30pm, and those who would like to participate can contact info@wbopns.org.nz for a link to join.
March 3 - Neighbourhood Support looks for board members
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is looking for new board members, especially those with experience in accounting and fundraising.
Chair Kathy Webb says the voluntary positions are not demanding of time.
“We’re looking for board members who are enthusiastic about their communities and keen to make a difference in their wider neighbourhood. We have nearly 15,000 member families around the Western Bay.”
The treasurer role includes ensuring that proper records are kept, monitoring and reporting on the financial health of thge organisation monthly. A good knowledge of Xero is required, and knowledge of charitable funding sources and their compliance requirements as well.
Neighbourhood Support works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places.
“We have monthly Board meetings and occasional participation may be needed on working groups to organise events, when we’re able to have those again,” she said.
“This is a voluntary role but reasonable expenses are covered, such as local travel. You'll be working with like-minded people keen to make a difference in their communities.
Prospective board members should be enthusiastic about developing strong communities and have strategic thinking skills, and some leadership experience, such as involvement in other community or social service groups is useful.
Good communication skills and being a team player is also important, she says. The Board is also looking to strengthen diversity to better represent Tauranga’s diverse communities, and welcomes board members of all ethnicities.
Successful candidates will need to undergo a Police check. Interested people should email Kathy Webb, info@wbopns.org.nz
The Christmas Food Drive with Emergency Services
December 2021 - Emergency Services Neighbourhood Support food drive a winner
Tuesday night’s Emergency Services Neighbourhood Support food drive around parts of Mount Maunganui, Mataphihi, Ōtumoetai and Maungatapu was a huge success.
Police, Fire, Ambulance and Search and Rescue officers joined volunteers from Neighbourhood Support to walk the streets with sirens blaring and lights flashing to collect non-perishable food from households, who turned out in droves to watch the fun.
The collection was done contactlessly with people putting their gifts on the ground for the runners to pick up, but there were lots of smiles and happy kids around the streets.
Women in one retirement village, Pacific Lakes in Girven Road, had made up little parcels of special toiletry items for women as Christmas gifts. Mount organiser, Constable Kurt Waugh said as well as being a fun event for everyone involved, the collection was a huge success across all areas.
“Lots of food donations were collected, meaning the food banks can help those in need over Christmas and into the new year. I’d say it was the largest collection in my five years of organising the event.”
Neighbourhood Support Ōmanu Area Coordinator Linda Thompson said families came out of their houses to see the emergency vehicles, and the generosity of households was overwhelming.
All the food was delivered to the Salvation Army in the Mount to be made up into food parcels for needy families.
Police, Fire emergency, St John, Search and Rescue and Neighbourhood Support thank all the volunteers who helped out in this year’s food drive.
November 23 - All the bells and whistles for food drive nights
Western Bay of Plenty’s Neighbourhood Support will be leading the emergency services food drive around the streets of Pāpāmoa on November 30 with sirens blaring and flashing lights.
And a week later the entourage will be cruising around the streets of Mount Maunganui in the early evening on December 7 collecting non-perishable food donations from letterboxes.
Neighbourhood Support Manager Bruce Banks says they’ll have 10 teams and over 100 volunteers running the streets, accompanied by police, fire and ambulance vehicles with lights and sirens blazing. Support vehicles from Fisheries, Search and Rescue and Emergency Management Bay of Plenty will also be joining in.
“It will be the biggest collection we’ve ever had in Pāpāmoa,” he said. Last year the drive collected 24 trailer loads of cans and boxes from neighbourhood donations which boosted stores at Pāpāpmoa Family Services for Christmas.
This year the collection is contactless, with households leaving donations at letterboxes to be collected by runners.
“Many families will be doing it hard this Christmas after so many lockdowns and businesses under stress. Foodbanks are facing heavy demands, often from families who have never had to ask for help before,” Bruce said.
The Foodbanks are also looking for the odd treat for struggling families, toiletries, cleaning items, baby needs and pet items.
“We’re hoping families will add a few things to their grocery list over the next few weeks ready to donate when the emergency service vehicles arrive in their street,” Bruce said.
Kurt Waugh, organising the Mount Maunganui collection for Police, said they’re hoping for generous donations from the public for Tauranga Foodbank.
The Pāpāmoa collection is from 6pm on Tuesday, November 30 covering every street, and the Mount Maunganui collection from 6pm on Tuesday, December 7. The route will be confirmed closer to the date.
October 14 - Your neighbourhood needs you
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is urgently looking for new board members, due to recent retirements.
Current Chair Kathy Webb says the voluntary positions are not demanding of time.
“We’re looking for board members who are enthusiastic about their communities and keen to make a difference in their wider neighbourhood. We have 16,000 member families around the Western Bay, and are intending to get out into the community over summer to help people get to know each other.
Neighbourhood Support works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places.
“We have monthly Board meetings and occasional participation may be needed on working groups to organise events,” she said.
“This is a voluntary role but reasonable expenses are covered, such as local travel. You'll be working with like-minded people keen to make a difference in their communities.
Prospective board members should be enthusiastic about developing strong communities and have strategic thinking skills, and some leadership experience, such as involvement in other community or social service groups is useful.
Good communication skills and being a team player is also important, she says. The Board is also looking to strengthen diversity to better represent Tauranga’s diverse communities, and welcomes board members of all ethnicities.
Successful candidates will need to undergo a Police check, and applications close soon. Interested people should email Kathy Webb, info@wbopns.org.nz
Western Bay of Plenty’s AGM will be held by Zoom (due to Covid restrictions) on October 26 at 7pm. The meeting will also be live streamed on Facebook and all members are welcome to join in.
Read our Annual Report 2022-23.
July 28 - Neighbourhood Support raising funds for community barbecue
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support has launched a Givealittle campaign to raise funds for a community barbecue.
Manager Bruce Banks says the barbecue, built on a trailer with all facilities included, will allow the organisation to bring neighbourhoods together during spring and summer months with events in local parks.
“We’ve already raised $8,500 and need a matching amount to have the facility built in time for spring weather,” Banks said.
“Communities can meet up in a local park to get to know each other, and we can use it at events with emergency services and council activities.”
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is part of a nationwide community-led movement that brings people and neighbourhoods together to create safe, resilient and connected communities.
About 16,000 households are already members and volunteer area coordinators and street coordinators work alongside Police, Fire and Emergency NZ, Civil Defence and other partners from Pukehina, Pāpāmoa, Mount Maunganui and Tauranga to as far as Ōmokoroa.
“Our goal is to raise $17,000 to fund this barbecue. We have already raised $8,500 but need people’s help to raise the remaining $8,500,” Banks said.
The Givealittle page is: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/connect-with-your-neighbours-by-helping-fund
Advertising deals for corporate or large sponsors are available to connect them with the project. Businesses keen to be involved can contact Banks at nspapamoa@wbopns.org.nz
June 19 - Your neighbourhood needs you
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is looking for more volunteers to help create resilient and connected communities.
Due to several resignations around the region for health or other reasons, Neighbourhood Support is needing Area Coordinators in about 20 areas including Ōmokoroa, The Lakes, Bethlehem, Gate Pā, Welcome Bay, Maketū and Ohauiti. It always needs volunteer street coordinators.
The organisation is also looking for qualified people to join its board after a couple of retirements.
“We’ve lost a couple of long-standing volunteers through health or other concerns and we really need people to step up and help,” manager Bruce Banks said.
The voluntary positions are not time consuming. Street Coordinators look after their own street neighbours, gathering contact details and keeping the list updated. Members receive regular newsletters by email.
Volunteer Area Coordinators look after a larger suburb area and act as a contact for street coordinators.
“We need people who are enthusiastic about their area and keen to see it thrive.”
Neighbourhood Support works closely with the Police and other organisations to build strong communities by reducing crime, improving safety and preparing to deal with emergencies and disasters.
Potential board members need a few skills. These include:
⦁ Be financially literate, possess analytical skills and have some knowledge of legal requirements.
⦁ Business acumen or strong networks in the not-for-profit sector.
⦁ A commitment to community and neighbourhood development.
⦁ Strategic thinking and problem solving skills.
⦁ Governance experience (but this is not essential).
⦁ Committed to what Neighbourhood Support is trying to achieve for the community.
“We would like to increase the cultural diversity of our Board and to strengthen and diversify our fundraising portfolio, so experience in the not-for-profit fundraising arena would be a bonus.”
The Board meets monthly and candidates could also commit to occasional working groups. The appointment is for a three-year term and is voluntary.
Interested people should contact Bruce Banks, Ph 07 562 2828, 027 271 3772 or email nspapamoa@wbopns.org.nz
May 6 - Helpful neighbours rewarded
A Papamoa man has won the admiration of his neighbours for his helpfulness - and a well-equipped emergency Neighbourhood Support Go Bag for his kindness.
Kevin explores his Go Bag with Neighbourhood Support manager Bruce Banks.
Kevin Low of Ohope Place in Papamoa was nominated by Tracy McNaughton for Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support’s Nominate Your Neighbour competition.
Tracy said Kevin is a great neighbour.
“He keeps an eye on our street when walking his dog, and regularly chats to everyone on the street. He recently updated our street list and organised a very successful barbecue so all the new residents could meet everyone.
“He takes my bins in each week after they have been emptied and will put them out if I’m away. He also keeps an eye on my property and cat if I’m away. Kevin and Colleen are great neighbors.”
Kevin wins a $200 Go Bag for emergencies, and a barbecue with his neighbours when the weather warms up.
Second prize winners are Glenda and Rex Tucker, of Victoria Rd, Mount Maunganui nominated by neighbour Merilynn Crean. They win a $50 New World voucher. Merilynn says the Tuckers are very helpful.
“They clear our mailbox and put out our rubbish if we are away, they will go inside to check something if we are away. We are always getting together for coffee or a meal.
“Rex mows our lawn while we supply the bin, Glenda often brings across baking. Rex keeps an eye out for troublemakers and disturbances in the hood. We have an annual Christmas street party in our shared driveway which we all prepare, deliver invitations and host on the night.
“Rex puts on an enormous Christmas light display each December, and continues to add cutout Santas etc for the children to view. As you can see they are wonderful to live next to. We are very lucky!”
Third prize of a $50 New World voucher goes to Pauline Herrington of Contour Ave, Pyes Pa, nominated by Kim Sherlock.
Kim says Pauline welcomes new neighbours and hosts morning teas for them.
“She regularly checks in on all of her other elderly neighbours that are also on their own. She looks after people's homes when they are away, waters plants inside and out and puts out their rubbish.
“She visits neighbours when they have had surgery and takes them meals. During December when two neighbours were selling their homes she welcomed one of the disabled owners to stay in her house while the open homes were going on,” Kim says..
“She takes people to hospital appointments if they can’t get there themselves. She acts as the local Predator Free coordinator for our streets, making up the rat trap boxes and delivering them to all the neighbours.”
Neighbourhood Support General Manager Bruce Banks said the entries from neighbours showed many people are making their neighbourhoods a better place and there were inspiring stories of how streets were coming together.
Entries were judged on whether the nominee had been involved with more than one neighbour, how long they had been supporting their neighbourhood and the amount of effort put in.
“We have some amazing streets full of friendly and helpful neighbours around the Western Bay, ” he said.
With 16,000 members in the Western Bay, Neighbourhood Support intends to run the competition annually around Neighbours Day in March.
Neighbours celebrate the new CCTV at their park. Photo: SunLive
Kids enjoying the play equipment at Horoipia Park. Photo: SunLive
March 10 - Nominate your neighbour
Do you love your neighbours? Do you have someone in your street who goes the extra mile to help create a great community?
Tell Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support what makes your neighbour great, and win an emergency Grab and Go bag for yourself and your family valued at almost $200. And a fun barbecue for your street later to celebrate.
“We have some amazing streets full of friendly and helpful neighbours around the Western Bay,” says Neighbourhood Support General Manager Bruce Banks.
“We want to know where these great people are, and reward them with a full-sized Grab and Go bag full of all the essentials in an emergency for the person who sends in the best entry. It’s also a perfect time to refresh your emergency supplies after the tsunami alert we all had last week.
It’s Neighbours Day later this month so it’s time to celebrate our neighbours and what they do to make our communities safe and resilient. There are also $50 supermarket vouchers to be won for runners up.
“There are 16,000 members of Neighbourhood Support in the region, and all of them have a reason to love their neighbours and help create a resilient community. Could yours be a winner?”
Nominate your neighbour by emailing info@wbopns.org.nz by March 31.
December 18 - Community celebrates a win
Neighbourhood Support groups in Leander and Carysfort streets are celebrating the recent installation of a CCTV camera at Horoipia Reserve.
It’s hoped the installation of the cameras will end months of having to clean up the mess left behind by a group of youth who have been using the park and playground to sleep.
Local resident and Carysfort Street Neighbourhood Support facilitator Jo Shannon says the park, which was opened in November 2019, has given the neighbouring streets a place to connect.
“As a community, we were delighted to have a playground and green space created for our children, families and community,” says Jo.
“Unfortunately, there are always a few individuals who push the boundaries of reasonable behaviour.”
The park became a focal point for 10 to 15 youths who started sleeping there on weekends, leaving behind rubbish, belongings, duvets and blankets, as well as bags of human faeces.
There was also damage to fences, cars and pathways and incidents of intimidating and disruptive behaviour making it feel unsafe for neighbouring families and children to use the park.
Jo approached Tauranga City Council with the support of Mount Maunganui Community Constable Mefi Taele to request CCTV be installed and a liquor ban put in place.
Council Regulation Monitoring team leader Stuart Goodman responded on October 30, saying police had not requested a liquor ban at the reserve and that there was no budget available for additional CCTV in the area.
Jo then approached local Tauranga City Council ward councillors, Dawn Kiddie and Steve Morris, and called a street meeting on November 24.
On the day of the meeting, the group learned that the decision had been made to install CCTV cameras before Christmas.
"It just shows what can be done when a group of neighbours get together,” says Neighbourhood Support Ōmanu Area Coordinator Linda Thompson.
“They know they had things that were concerning their families and they got together and made something happen in a couple of weeks, lobbying the Council. The camera is going to make this park safer for everybody.
“All these people are members of Neighbourhood Support and they can show what can be done with people getting together as families.”
Leander Street Neighbourhood Support coordinator Jessie Grimmer says there are 50 families in their street’s neighbourhood support group.
“I want to do a big shout out to Jo Shannon and Dawn Kiddie. Jo organised getting the camera installed. Her perseverance in dealing with Council [shows] that if you keep trying eventually you will get some results.
“Dawn helped make it happen, following through with Council and getting some action when we needed it.
“We had a driveway meeting with Dawn and Mefi Taele our Community Constable about three weeks ago. Jo went through everything she’d been doing.
“She’d already been contacting the Council and they’d agreed to put a camera in. Dawn followed up to try and get a date for us and then the next thing we know there’s a guy installing it.”
Jessie says that community support through Neighbourhood Support was an important aspect.
“I think there needs to be a Neighbourhood Support group in every street.”
Mount Maunganui College technology and music teacher Tia Beaufort is a local resident and father of two children, aged nine and six, who play at the park.
“It was a bit concerning to see a lot of damage,” says Tia.
“Some of the teenagers were probably living here temporarily so it was a bit sad to see.”
Tia says the situation with behaviour at the park began soon after the COVID lockdown lifted.
“I think it’s something to do with the increasing house prices in the area and the rents going up,” says Tia.
“It’s good to see we’ve got some action from the Council. I’m just hoping that they can think about where the problem’s coming from and try sort them out as well.
“We have an awesome network of neighbours willing to look out for each other.”
Neil Osbaldiston and his wife have lived in the street for 35 years.
“Council really hasn’t paid much attention to this area for a very long time,” says Neil.
“They tried to increase the density of housing around here without any extra services and I think they’ve given us this [Horoipia Reserve playground] as a bit of a token.
“It’s nice, it’s being well-used by the kids and its great. The demographics of the neighbourhood have changed totally from being a high-turnover rental population to being more family-orientated.
“It’s changed heaps in the last five years since they chucked away the Smart Growth planning. Then the families could rebuy back in here knowing they weren’t going to have an apartment beside them.
“Some people owned five houses in this area, rented them out, didn’t care or have any vested interest in the house. As soon as families buy, then others buy and then a sense of community comes again.
“We’ve been here for 35 years and it was great, then it deteriorated because people were buying in to develop up, but then it was sold to families again and the community comes back again,” says Neil.
“We have made a collected effort to support our Neighbourhood Support organisation and to speak up when we felt not enough was being done to assist local police and to keep our community safe,” says Jo.
The group is making plans for a celebration at the park within the next week.
“There are several Neighbourhood Support street groups involved in this area. We still need a couple more street co-ordinators though,” says Linda.
To form a Neighbourhood Support group or become a street coordinator, go to www.wbopns.org.nz
more street co-ordinators though,” says Linda.
To form a Neighbourhood Support group or become a street coordinator, go to www.wbopns.org.nz
October 26 - Keep kids and your neighbourhood safe this Halloween
Halloween is only a few nights away and more children are enjoying a fun evening out trawling the neighbourhood for sweets.
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support has a few tips for keeping the little monsters safe while out trick or treating.
Provide adult supervision - Trick or treat is safer and more fun – in groups with an adult. Get together with other adults in your neighbourhood and make an evening of it.
Stay on the footpaths – Kids can often get distracted while dressed up and in a group. An adult should help them cross the road.
Carefully check sweets - Check for choking hazards like gum and hard candies. Throw away anything not sealed with a wrapper and avoid homemade treats.
Choose bright, visible costumes - Stick some reflective tape on their trick-or-treat bags as well so they can be easily spotted by motorists. Make sure the costume won’t be a trip hazard or masks block vision. Face paint can often be better. Swords and canes shouldn’t be sharp. Take make-up off before bed.
Safe homes - If you’re turning your home into a haunted house, keep safety in mind. Make sure steps, porches and paths are well-lit and free of decorations. Keep decorations away from fireplaces and candles.
Use extra caution while driving - Drivers need to take particular care on this night. Drive slowly through a neighborhood, watch for kids who may dart into the road without looking.
“With more children enjoying dressing up for Halloween and going house to house, it’s a good opportunity to get to know your neighbours so go with the children and introduce yourself,” Neighbourhood Support manager Bruce Banks said.
“We’re fortunate that we’re in summer time so it’s light outside, but take extra care on this fun evening. Let the kids enjoy their night and get to know your neighbours.”
Download a ‘no treats at this house’ sign for your window.
Download a colouring page for the kids.
October 1 - Nominations for Good Neighbour Awards
The nominations are in! NZ Neighbourhood Support has a Good Neighbour Award and those nominated in our area are:
Sally Browne – Mount Maunganui
Jo Baker – Pāpāmoa
Debbie Martin – Pāpāmoa
Kerri Silvester – Pāpāmoa
Graham & Liz O’Riordan – Bethlehem
Jim Miles – Pāpāmoa
Rick Meers – Pyes Pa
Dorothy van der Hoven – Mātua
Louise & Lee Roberts – Ōmokoroa
Tiffany McMasters – Pāpāmoa
Rick Peers – Ōmokoroa
Sarah Cooper – Pāpāmoa
Kyle & Rachel Berridge – Pāpāmoa
Rose Martin-Bain – Ōmokoroa
Bruce – Ōmokoroa Pharmacy
Andre & Tanya – Brookfield
Jenny Oliver – Pāpāmoa
Andrew, Debbie & Josh Patterson – Te Puna
Alana March - Whakamarama
Read the details here.
September 15 - Big changes for police during Covid
Police have dealt with fewer burglaries, more shoplifting and more gang activity during Covid, Police liaison Senior Sergeant Chris Sommerville told this week’s Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support Annual Meeting.
He said the nature of crime was changing for police. Criminals could get a longer jail sentence for burglary of a flat screen TV to sell for $50 when they could snatch $300 jackets from a shop in a few seconds, and shoplifting had a much lesser penalty.
Partnerships with organisations such as Neighbourhood Support are important but would take some time, he said. There were now six community constables in the area, and places like Katikati were moving from a sergeant and three constables to six constables.
“We’re putting resources in the right place,” he said. Police also had a new command vehicle and community constables were working together on mobile policing.
Meth continued to be a scourge and during Covid lockdown local production ramped up when it had previously been imported. Police also dealt with more family harm.
“Neighbourhood Support members are our eyes and ears, and you’re looking for different things. Homeless people may be living in cars on your street.” Returning “501s” from Australia had also brought in more firearms.
Tauranga Mayor Tenby Powell thanked the organisation’s thousands of volunteers and said the City Council was working on homelessness and the “epidemic” of meth in the city.
The instigators of the new Re:Maker Space in the city outlined their plans for an area where people could share their skills and resources, with creative workshops planned for the school holidays.
Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support also launched its new website, www.wbopns.org.nz
July 20 - Mount neighbourhoods keen to unite after lockdown
More Mount Maunganui households want to join Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support after the isolation of lockdown.
Neighbourhood Support was kept busy during lockdown but took the opportunity to deliver fliers around the Mount calling for new street co-ordinators.
The result was two dozen emails and phone calls from people wanting to know more about what is involved in being a street co-ordinator, 10 signing up to do the role with more considering it, and 56 new households signing on.
Western Bay of Plenty manager Bruce Banks said the interest was positive.
“People made connections with their neighbours while they were staying home and many want to continue that connection,” he said.
“Street Co-ordinators are the ‘glue’ in our organisation.” Once the new Street Co-ordinators sign up their neighbours, the organisation is expecting to have more than 300 new household members in Mount Maunganui.
Currently about 15,700 Western Bay of Plenty households are members. The new Street Co-ordinators also had a good reception from their neighbours.
“I was pleasantly surprised by the positive feedback and 100 per cent of neighbours signing up,” new Street Co-ordinator Carol Trusler said.
“Such a great response and a fantastic way to meet my locals. It doesn’t take much time and having the group really builds the neighbourly spirit. There is already talk of a street party.”
“Streets where Neighbourhood Support Street Groups operate are more resilient in a crisis, and have been proven to have less crime as people keep an eye on each other’s homes,” Bruce said.
Despite the success of the membership drive, Neighbourhood Support is still keen to enroll more households and find more Street Co-ordinators throughout the Western Bay of Plenty.
“There are still many streets or parts of streets that need someone to volunteer to help us set up a Street Group. It’s not a lot of work and it helps build a friendly neighbourhood.”
June 15 - Neighbourhoods band together during lockdown
Western Bay of Plenty’s Neighbourhood Support volunteers provided a lifeline for residents during the Covid-19 lockdown, Western Bay of Plenty Manager Bruce Banks says.
“From the start of level 3, I was fielding more than 200 calls and emails every day, between 6am and 11pm from both members and non-members. Many were wanting Neighbourhood Support to authorise an activity outside the rules,” he said.
“When Level Three was announced, we also found out we were not deemed an essential service. This left us in the uncomfortable position of not being able to get out into our community when it needed us the most.
“The concept of stay home unless going directly to essential services was so foreign to all of us that many people thought the rules were too rigid, and should not apply to them.”
One woman from Pāpāmoa East wanted to go to Bayfair to shop, passing her three nearest supermarkets. A man in Judea wanted to drive to Pāpāmoa to walk on the beach.
Both were told they couldn’t.
“The big thing that came out of lockdown was just how well our Street Groups performed. Where we had active Street Groups, the Street Co-ordinators identified those members who might need assistance.
“Knowing who was old, in poor health or isolated from family was absolute gold. These vulnerable people got assistance with shopping, collecting medicines and other essential services.
“Our Street Co-ordinators became the “glue” in their group, but there was no expectation that they take on all this extra responsibility, they just did, or arranged for another member to help out.
“This is proof that in a crisis, Neighbourhood Support Street Groups work.”
He said area coordinators made thousands of Welfare Check phone calls to members during lockdown and identified some in crisis and helped them to access essentials from the appropriate agency.
“I know we made a real difference to those people’s lives.”
He said streets where Neighbourhood Support Street Groups were operating proved more resilient. Members had contact information for their neighbours and quickly identified those who were elderly, isolated or vulnerable.
“That little bit of assistance was so important to those who did not have local family, or all their friends were also in that vulnerable age group.”
He had fielded plenty of enquiries from residents wanting to establish a Neighbourhood Support Street Group where they live, and that was now under way.
“There are still many streets (or part streets) that need someone to volunteer to help us set up a Street Group so if you think you could be that person, please give me a call.”