£75,000 for group to aid victims of burglary security

Kirklees Council and West Yorkshire Police are backing the project, which aims to improves the security of over 1,000 homes across Kirklees each year.

The scheme has proven successful in reducing repeat burglaries and 95 per cent of victims have reporting feeling safer in their homes as a result of the security improvements.

Huddersfield-based Fresh Horizons and Kirklees Council have worked in partnership with police for 10 years to provide the service where householders who have suffered burglaries are informed of the service by crime reduction officers and Victim Support.

A surveyor visits the home giving recommendations for increasing security. If extra security measures are needed a team of qualified fitters from Fresh Horizons install new locks, external lighting and other security updates.

Fresh Horizons managing director Mike McCusker said: “One of the worst things that can happen to anyone is to have their home violated by burglars, and we’re delighted this scheme which does so much to help victims recover can continue.

“We are in a very tough spending environment, so we are grateful to Kirklees Council for stepping in to support the scheme and to our local police officers who work closely with us.”

Kirklees Council’s Cabinet member for communities, Jean Calvert, said: “Being a victim of burglary can have a devastating effect on people.

“Most people are upset at the thought that a stranger has been in their home and some don’t feel secure in their home any more after a burglary.

“This scheme ensures practical help is available to improve home security which reduces the chances of becoming a repeat victim.”