DOZENS of security systems have been fitted at the homes of vulnerable and elderly residents as part of a new initiative.
Staffordshire Housing Association was awarded 3,000 to install new fence panels, gates, door chains, window locks and viewfinders to 100 homes.
Residents in Fenton, Meir Hay and Sandford Hill are among those to benefit . They were prioritised because they have previously been victims of crime.
Police community support officer Paul Washington worked with Revival, an agency within Staffordshire Housing Association, to help implement the scheme.
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He said: “What we found was that homes owned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council or a housing association usually had good security, but some of the privately-owned houses just didn’t have the appropriate security measures . It was quite frightening.
“By installing these extra security systems whether it be a new gate or a door chain it has given reassurance, not only to the residents who live in the homes, but also to their families.
“Although a lot of the residents have supportive families, they can’t be with them all the time.
“The response from everyone about the new scheme has been really positive.
“We are now looking to extend it to residents in other areas.”
The people selected for the scheme were referred through various agencies or had previously been a victim of crime in the last 12 months.
The housing association secured the cash from the People Power Fund run by Staffordshire’s police and crime commissioner, Matthew Ellis.
Christina Timmis, Revival manager, said: “Getting this funding has enabled us to make a positive difference to the lives of some vulnerable people, who were fearful in their own homes.
“It is heartening to see their confidence and well-being increase as a result of the security measures the funding has paid for.
“We are delighted that Mr Ellis was able to come out and see the results for himself.”
Mr Ellis said: “It was great to talk to local residents and hear how they feel much safer with the extra security in place.
“Revival and the PCSOs have done a great job working with them to make them less vulnerable.”
The People Power Fund has 500,000 to share between community groups in 2015/16 .
Grants of between 100 and 3,000 are available.
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