History of the BDCSR
The BDCSR was initially managed by the Police Proactive Unit as a program of Neighbourhood Watch Ballarat to support residents in the Golden Plains Shire, the Pyrenees Shire and the City of Ballarat.
In 2019, when Neighbourhood Watch Ballarat ceased, the BDCSR transferred to the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre.
The objectives of the BDCSR are:
- To increase awareness of peoples own safety, security and sense of social inclusion in their own homes.
- To enhance the feeling of security, confidence and sense of well-being and to minimise the concerns of family members for the welfare of their relatives.
- To enhance proactive police initiatives such as community safety and to strengthen and encourage community networks.
- To assist those residents needing help in times of community emergency.
- To minimise the fear of crime and to create a closer community safety and crime prevention initiatives.
How does the BDCSR work?
Managed by the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre (BNC) approved volunteers (who undergo training and police checks) make contact with participants, provide welfare checks and maintain the register database.
To join the BDCSR simply complete a registration form. Once received your details will be entered into the confidential computer database. You will receive an identity card (for your wallet or purse) and a window sticker for your home.
Once registered, participants will receive regular welfare telephone checks. If a volunteer has concerns about the welfare of a participant or in case of emergency your details maybe provided to a emergency services member at the request of a senior Police Officer.
Our volunteers will respect the diverse nature of the community and the right of each member to speak and represent different views.
In public, members shall speak well of each other and BNC and if representing BNC be punctual to functions and support BNC views and policies.
BDCSR Volunteers
- Number of volunteers involved: 10
- The role is based in Ballarat
- Volunteers are required Monday to Friday 10 am to 12 pm on any day. This can be weekly, fortnightly or monthly as agreed.
- Volunteers will enjoy speaking to people, learning new things, meeting new people and being active.
- Role and key duties
- Undertake data entry and maintenance using a data base program
- Receive phone enquiries
- Prepare, collate and address letters and newsletters to registrants
- Make “Care Calls” to registrants as scheduled
- Other general office duties as directed
