Have your eyes and ears open to support your neighbours

Reference: 

Residents across the district are being invited to learn how to protect vulnerable members of their community.

The East Cambridgeshire Community Safety Partnership has organised a Community Eyes and Ears event to help keep vulnerable people safe as well as educate residents on reporting suspicious behaviour.

The event, being held at Ely Cathedral in October, will provide a wealth of resources and the opportunity to report any concerns on a confidential basis.

East Cambridgeshire District Council (ECDC) plays an active role in the East Cambridgeshire Community Safety Partnership alongside other organisations including the police, county council, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service, NHS and the National Probation Trust.

Councillor David Ambrose Smith, Chairman of ECDC’s Operational Services Committee, said: “We want East Cambridgeshire residents to be able to recognise risks in the community and help protect vulnerable people who might not be able to look out for themselves.

“It is vitally important that we ensure the safety and welfare of our residents and I would urge people to attend the event.”

The event, which is being held on Thursday, October 24, from 10am-1pm, will include talks from the Lord-Lieutenant’s representative, The Hon. Frances Stanley DL, and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Jason Ablewhite.

There will also be other key speakers and a performance by Infusion Physical Theatre.

Police Inspector at Cambridgeshire Constabulary, Rachel Gourlay, said: “Everyone no matter age or background can become a victim of scams whether by online post or doorstep.

“Do you know how to spot a scam to avoid it or know how to report it should you or someone you know become a victim? We encourage you to follow the link to complete the online learning and support East Cambs Community Safety Partnership work to keep East Cambs a safer place.”

Some of the signs that people need to look out for when talking to neighbours includes unsecured windows or doors, unnecessary, excessive or low-quality work on the house, suspicious investments, regular door-to-door salespeople visiting and spam phone calls.

For further information about Eyes and Ears, email eyesandears@eastcambs.gov.uk