Since the launch of the Together we are Waltham Forest campaign, more than 30 residents have Waltham Forest have joined us in making a pledge to improve community safety in the borough, because our system only works when we all work together.
While the police, fire brigade, and council each have clear responsibilities - like investigating crime, responding to emergencies, and delivering vital services - our residents and communities also play a powerful role. Whether it’s reporting concerns, supporting neighbours, engaging with young people, or simply looking out for one another, these everyday actions help build a borough where everyone feels safer, more informed, and more supported.
At a recent meeting of the Citizens Panel, a group of residents who come together at the Town Hall to feed back on local safety concerns and council activities, the panel made a joint pledge. Together they said: "We will use our voices as residents to steer change towards an even safer Waltham Forest."
Councillors, senior police officials and other partners have made their own pledges to do their part as well. Cllr Andrew Dixon, Cabinet Member for Communities, pledged to "stand against all forms of hate crime", while Lee Benjamin, who runs local youth project The Cotch, pledged to "give young people the skills they need for the future".
Can you join in and make your own pledge? It could be as simple as sharing safety advice with your friends, or attending your local police team's next ward panel. Perhaps you're already running a neighbourhood watch or community group. Whatever your contribution, together we can create safer streets for everybody.
