Street Watch

As part of Volunteers Celebration Week, each day we are highlighting a group of our dedicated volunteers and the work that they do.  

Today, we are celebrating the vital role Street Watch Volunteers play in supporting the Police, by serving as extra eyes and ears within the community. Northamptonshire Street Watch enables local people to take an active role in keeping their community safe by patrolling their neighbourhood as part of an organised scheme. Their visible presence helps deter crime, promotes public reassurance and strengthens the bond between the community and the Police Force.  

Marie Simons, a Street Watch Volunteers tells us about her role. Marie said: “I have been a Street Watch Volunteer for around two and a half years and was initially drawn to the role because I wanted to contribute to making my neighbourhood feel safer and more connected. 

“I find my role is all about being a visible presence in the community, keeping an eye on the area, providing reassurance and reporting anything that looks out of place. It’s a small commitment, but it feels worthwhile knowing I’m helping to make a difference locally.  

“Volunteers play a big part in supporting the wider police force by being extra eyes and ears in the community. While we’re not there to intervene or enforce, we act as a visible deterrent and help build trust between the public and police, strengthening our community ties. 

Reflecting on challenges she has faced, Marie said: “One of the challenges is making sure that people understand the role of Street Watch, that we’re there to observe and report, not to intervene. It takes patience to explain what we do and why.  

“However, I would absolutely recommend volunteering with the Force to others. It is a great way to give back to your community, meet new people and feel a part of something bigger. You don’t need any special skills, just a willingness to be involved and a commitment to doing your bit.” 

Street Watch volunteers are supported by a coordinator who liaises with team members and their local neighbourhood policing team to share information and help progress any initiatives that can help prevent crime and improve safety in the local area. 

Tony Aslam, the Community Street Watch Coordinator, spoke to us about his role. Tony said: “I am someone who finds a lot of purpose in giving back to the community and volunteering has been an important part of my life. I was initially asked by the Force to help and support on a different project, after that was completed I wanted to continue serving the community, just in a different capacity. I was drawn to Northamptonshire Police Force because of the values upheld within the organisation and the positive impact it has on peoples lives.  

“What really stood out to me was how welcoming the team was, and how aligned the mission felt with the reasons I went into Policing in the first place – to protect, support and uplift others.  

“Volunteering plays a crucial role in supporting and complementing the wider force. From my perspective as a former police officer, I see volunteering as an extension of public service—it helps build trust, strengthen community relationships, and bridge gaps that traditional policing sometimes can't fully address on its own. 

Volunteers often engage with individuals and communities in ways that are more informal, proactive, and preventative. That can make a big difference in reducing tensions, increasing public confidence, and promoting safety and well-being. 

“I’ve found that being a volunteer gives me the chance to use my experience and understanding of the community in a constructive, approachable way. It also helps reinforce the idea that public safety is everyone’s responsibility—not just the police. Ultimately, volunteers strengthen the force by acting as trusted partners, building resilience, and helping to create safer, more connected communities.” 

Reflecting on a moment that made him feel proud, Tony said: One of my proudest moments since volunteering with you was when I supported a young person who had been struggling with trust in authority figures. Through consistent engagement and just being there to listen without judgment, I saw a real shift in their confidence and willingness to open up. Knowing that I was able to build that bridge—especially given my background as a former police officer—meant a lot to me. It reminded me that positive change often starts with small, human connections. 

“I would absolutely recommend volunteering with the force to others. Whether you have a background in policing like I do, or you’re just someone who wants to make a difference, volunteering gives you a real opportunity to contribute to safer, stronger communities. 

It’s a chance to be part of something bigger than yourself—to offer support, build trust, and help people during difficult times. You also gain valuable skills, meet people from all walks of life, and experience the satisfaction of knowing your time is making a real difference.” 

If you are interested in getting involved and would like to learn more about the work our volunteers do, click the link below.