Spyhole project increases safety
Fitted to the front door of a flat or maisonette, the device will allow the occupants not only to see who's at the door but also to speak to them to ask for ID. This is a much safer option compared to the traditional door chain.
Aylesbury NDC has provided £14,500 of funding to supply and fit spyhole intercoms to 1,000 homes on the estate, as well as window alarms that will go off if someone tries to tamper with the window. Residents who feel vulnerable outside their homes will also receive personal safety alarms.
The NDC's Social Project Coordinator Cathie MacIver explains, "People who have experienced a burglary or break-in, especially the elderly, often live in fear. Their own front door is a really important barrier from the outside world, and they need to feel protected by it.
"The crime rate on the Aylesbury Estate is actually quite low, thanks to the work of the Community Wardens and the Community Reassurance Team. However the Spyhole Project will make a big difference in improving residents' sense of safety in their own homes and also reassure them that their local community values and cares about them."
A survey carried out by the Community Wardens will help to identify households that would benefit from the additional security, and the installation will be carried out by trained and Police-checked Victim Support staff.
If you live on the estate and would like to be considered for the scheme, contact Cathie on 020 7358 4143 or by email.
