Gardaí setting up a vulnerable persons register

Gardaí are setting up a vulnerable persons register for isolated or elderly people in the Westmeath area.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant John McWalter explains the idea behind the register.

“This local initiative would involve communication between vulnerable persons, the people who support them and the local community policing gardaí. The information would also assist all gardaí should we need to respond to an emergency, involving a vulnerable individual.

“We would also have contact details for their next of kin, neighbours, doctors details etcetera . We would also be able to send them any information on local crime trends or incidents happening in the area.

“All people in our communities have the right to live a life, free from fear of crime in their areas. It is the responsibility for all agencies to ensure that those vulnerable people receive every support to live a hassle free and comfortable life in their own homes.

“As with some people in our society, they might be unwilling to have Gardai call on them or be involved in an initiate such as this. In that instance we can just drop in occasionally whilst on patrols. If we are not welcome, then we will respect that decision.”

Sgt McWalter says that he and colleagues hope that the new initiative will help them link up with sections of the community that could benefit from additional support.

“I know with GDPR guidelines we have to be careful on sharing information on people but if there is someone in your area that you feel, might like a call or would benefit from one, from Community Policing Gardai, then we would be more than willing to oblige. As always, respect for confidentiality would be paramount.”

Should anyone like to be involved in this initiative, they can call Sgt McWalter on 0449384061 or by email at westmeath.crimeprevention@garda.ie .