Avon and Somerset Police’s Be Home Safe Scheme provides support to people who have experienced crimes such as burglary, domestic abuse, harassment, hate crime and anti-social behaviour.

Police Sergeant Daniel Crawford said: “Our service places the needs of the individual at its heart. We assess the situation of each person and offer advice, support, or crime prevention devices to keep them safe.

“We help people who have been victims of a number of different crimes. At the moment, a large proportion of our referrals are supporting domestic abuse victims – keeping them safe is our priority.”

Be Home Safe technicians are skilled carpenters and locksmiths who are also fully trained in crime prevention. 

Their expert knowledge and experience of practical crime reduction measures enables them to carry out assessments, fit new locks and window security, reinforce doors, and fit anti-arson products for people who are at risk of harm.

They also provide crime prevention advice and support to victims during their visit. This can include signposting to support services, reassurance following the incident and sometimes being the initial contact support following a report to police.

Be Home Safe technicians of Avon and Somerset Police helped more than 1,400 people feel safer in their homes last year.

Be Home Safe technician Richard (pictured) said: “We help families affected by domestic abuse stay in their homes by making them safe and secure.

“Our work means they don’t need to go into emergency accommodation, or move away from their children’s school, friends, and support networks.

“We have lots of ways we can keep people safe in their homes.

“I’m proud of the work we do but will always wish there weren’t so many people who need our support to be safe.”

People over the age of 65, victims of hate crime, victims of burglary or fraud, victims of domestic, sexual or racial violence, and any vulnerable member oof the community can use the Be Home Safe Scheme.

Be Home Safe scheme does:

Checks door locks and upgrade if necessary

Fit door chains if necessary

Fit door viewers if necessary

Installs window locks if necessary

Fit window alarms if necessary

Supplies personal alarms if necessary

Looks at overall security of the property

Advises on security improvements

(Source: Avon and Somerset Police)