Forest Watch
A Partners and Community Crime Prevention Initiative
What is 'Forest Watch'?
'Forest Watch' is a Partners and Community Crime Prevention Initiative to reduce the amount of crime and anti-social behaviour in the forests of South Wales and to increase the amount of information regarding forest crime.
Who are the partners?
The key partners are:
- Members of the local community who have an interest in protecting our forests.
- Forestry Commission Wales (South Wales District)
- South Wales Police
- Local Authorities
Why is there a need for 'Forest Watch'?
Following a six month police secondment to the Forestry Commission, it was identified that there is degree of criminal and anti-social activity within the forests that is affecting not only the key partners but more importantly the local communities that lie close to the forests.
How will 'Forest Watch' work?
Forest Watch will be co-ordinated by PC 3753 Andrew Scourfield, South Wales Police’ Forest Crime Officer. The purpose of the scheme is to increase the amount of information regarding incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour. By having a designated phone number, e-mail address and point of contact it is hoped that members of the public will be encouraged to provide the key partners with information of interest and in turn reduce forest crime.
What will happen with the information?
The information gathered will be recorded, analysed and used to conduct intelligence led police and multi-agency operations and assist all partners in better tackling forest crime.
What are the benefits of such a scheme?
Reinforce the community spirit so that everyone can contribute towards the protection of their forests and countryside by mutual co-operation and communication
- Reduce the opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour
- Introduce early warning systems in and around forested land
- The existence of a 'Forest Watch' scheme and visible signs notifying people that the scheme operates in a certain area would act as a deterrent to many criminals and create a safer environment
- Improve the flow of intelligence between the police and local communities that are situated close to forested land
- Improve the relationship between key partners and local communities
- Fuel confidence in the key partners
Contact details for 'Forest Watch':
Police
PC 3753 Andrew Scourfield
Forest Crime Officer
Forestry Commission
Coed Y Cymoedd Office
Rheola
Neath
SA11 4DR
Tel: 08456 040845
e-mail: forestwatch@forestry.gsi.gov.uk