Home security parcels to help people feel safe

Vulnerable people are receiving crime prevention parcels and police will visit some residents at home to help them feel safer over the winter.

More than 200 elderly, vulnerable and isolated residents across Worcestershire will receive the kits, which are to prevent fraud and burglary.

Home visits in December and January will offer home security advice and information about further support where needed, West Mercia Police said.

Insp Dave Wise, from the safer neighbourhood team, said: "Winter and the Christmas period can be an anxious time for older and more isolated residents, particularly when it comes to fraud and burglary."

The parcels contained alarms, information and crime prevention packs and RFID blocking sleeves, which stop electronic thefts from cards by unauthorised scanning.

Details of other home security measures in the kits were not made public by police.

He said the parcels were about practical steps and "letting people know they haven't been forgotten".

The force has worked with Community Action, which provides transport and support for older residents, and has used funding from the police and crime commissioner's (PCC) community fund to reach those who need support most, he added.

"We'll continue that contact through home visits over the coming months," he said.

PCC John Campion said: "Everyone, no matter what their age, should be able to feel safe in their own homes. It shouldn't be a privilege; it should be a right.

"However, sadly, for elderly or vulnerable people that is not always the case."

The PCC said he hoped the kits would provide reassurance.

The parcels are being delivered by safer neighbourhood teams, with support from Community Action.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.