What's the most effective way of keeping your home secure? For most people having a watchful neighbour is a very reassuring and effective method.

In fact, twice as many people think a neighbour that keeps an eye on their home is better than an alarm system.

It's no wonder then, that neighbourhood watch schemes are very popular amongst the British public with over a quarter of all UK households joining up. Research suggests that three quarters of people believe a neighbourhood watch scheme is effective in preventing crimes such as burglary.

The National Neighbourhood Watch Association (NNWA) explained that neighbourhood watch didn't come to Britain until 1982, but it has grown rapidly ever since. Now there are over 150,000 schemes covering over six million homes, making it the largest voluntary movement in the UK. NNWA is the national charity that supports, promotes and represents neighbourhood watch across Britain.

As well as deterring criminals, neighbourhood watch schemes can help to bring local people together. They also create closer links between the community and local police, who are enthusiastic supporters of neighbourhood watch.

Insurance companies have also noticed the benefits of householders joining schemes, with many offering members discounts on house insurance premiums.

As well as contributing to home security, many of Britain's neighbourhood watch schemes have extended their activities to include:

For details of a scheme near you, or for more information on how to set up a scheme in your neighbourhood, contact your local police station or get in touch with the National Neighbourhood Watch Association.