Council extends successful alarm project

A project to protect burglary victims from further crime is being extended with funding from Derbyshire County Council.

The project was launched in Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire and Bolsover to reduce burglaries and prevent repeat incidents.

It proved such a success that the county council gave £50,000 so that homes in Amber Valley, Erewash, South Derbyshire, High Peak and Derbyshire Dales could benefit.

Since it was extended earlier this year 56 burglar alarms have been fitted - and none of the homes have been targeted by thieves again.

Now a further £30,000 is being ploughed in to the project so that even more people across the county can feel safer in their homes.

Councillor Carol Hart, the county council's Cabinet Member for Communities, said: "This extra funding will enable 60 more alarms to be fitted to homes around the county.

"Evidence shows that homes that are burgled have a higher than average chance of being targeted again.

"We hope that this scheme will help householders who have been a victim of this hideous crime feel safer in their homes."

Householders are referred to the project by a police officer who will arrange for an alarm to be fitted for just £75 - or free if they are receiving benefits.

The feedback that has been received from householders who have received an alarm has been very positive - with 100% of people saying they feel safer.

One person who has benefited from the scheme is 77-year-old Robert Weston. Thieves broke in to his Buxton home and stole jewellery - including his wedding ring - and a collection of coins.

"It made me feel extremely angry and very upset. The alarm gives us confidence and a better feeling of security," he said.

Other comments have included: "Being burgled is not a pleasant experience and having an alarm fitted gives me a sense of security".

Councillor Hart added: "We arrange for the alarm to be fitted so there is no added stress at what is already a traumatic time.

"I would urge everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this great offer. Not only are they saving hundreds of pounds on the price of having an alarm fitted they are also gaining peace of mind.

"Derbyshire is a safe place to live compared to other areas and we will continue to work with our partners to make sure residents feel even safer."

Crime in Derbyshire has fallen by more than a quarter over the last six years meaning 30,000 fewer victims across the county.

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