Cromwell police hope to reduce crime in the town with the development of a neighbourhood support programme.
Sergeant Mike Williams is encouraging residents interested in the concept to form a committee, which will get the scheme started.
Sgt Williams said neighbourhood support was essentially about community residents looking out for one another with the aim of preventing crime, solving problems and creating a sense of assurance among those living in the area.
Police would work closely with neighbourhood groups to address issues as they arose, so problems did not progress into crime.
If crime occurred, police would benefit from having already formed relationships with residents.
In turn, residents would get a better service from police.
From stray dogs to criminal activity, any community issues could be tackled by the network.
Crime prevention could include watching over houses when occupants were away, or reporting suspicious behaviour.
Sgt Williams said once a committee was formed, it would be affiliated with the national neighbourhood support body, and could start applying for funding.
He hoped funding would enable a co-ordinator to be employed, who would be responsible for engaging with all community groups and organising meetings, as well as any activities associated with the programme.
In specific streets or areas of the town, street co-ordinators would be responsible for keeping up to date with any issues, and working as a liaison between residents and others involved in the programme, including police.
