Speedwatch Volunteering

Your neighbourhood policing team are looking for volunteers (numbers are limited) to take an active part in the community speedwatch scheme, and are currently looking to hold some training sessions. This weekend, we are discussing the scheme on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire.

The Speedwatch scheme allows the public to get actively involved in monitoring the speed of vehicles travelling through their neighbourhood. It is used in areas where speeding has been identified as a priority at quarterly neighbourhood panel meetings. The scheme is run by the force alongside the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Road Safety Partnership. It is about educating motorists in the law in relation to speeding and monitoring any trends in speeding in neighbourhoods.

Volunteers are trained to use speed indicator devices which displays vehicle speed. The registered owner of any vehicle seen exceeding the speed limit is sent an advisory letter from their local neighbourhood policing team, explaining that speeding is unacceptable to the local community.

How much time will I need to give up?

There is no minimum time set but an expectation that sufficient hours are given to make the scheme viable.

Do you get training?

Yes full training is given to volunteers. This training will be provided by your local neighbourhood team in your neighbourhood and will depend on the needs of the group assembled.

Is it safe for volunteers?

Volunteers are given full training and safety equipment to ensure they are clearly visible to road users.

Will officers still carry out speed checks?

Areas where speeding is identified as an issue will be considered for enforcement work by officers.

What equipment is used?

Volunteers are provided with high visibility jackets and conduct speed checks using speed indicator devices. The vehicles speed is then displayed on the monitor.

Will records of the offending vehicles be kept?

Information gathered during the checks will be used to target enforcement and education measures. Persistent offenders will receive a visit from officers.

Can motorists be prosecuted?

No these checks are about educating motorists.

How will it stop people from speeding?

Speedwatch is not an enforcement tool but about educating motorists and raising awareness of the dangers of speeding. The scheme is just one part of the ongoing work being carried out by the force to target speeding.

If you would more information or to become a volunteer please reply to this message or call your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0345 4564564 and ask for PCSO 7262 Haleem.

Regards.
Peterborough South-East Neighbourhood Policing Team.

(C) Park Farm Neighbourhood Watch Peterborough UK Tel: 01733 345581 Broadcasters direct call ISDN 'down the line' 01733 555319 ISDN Codecs G722 & APT All Press Enquiries Julian Bray 01733 345581