New doorstep cameras focus on helping most vulnerable

SMILE – you’re on camera. That’s the message to doorstep criminals after a new nifty gadget was unveiled this week.

Some residents in South Gloucestershire and North Somerset are being equipped with electronic door viewers, which take answering the door to a new level of security by taking a picture of whoever is on the doorstep when they press the bell.

Avon and Somerset police and Western Power Distribution are working together to provide the devices to vulnerable and elderly residents, free of charge, through the Bobby Van scheme and the “Relentless: keeping you safe at home” initiative.

Designed to catch and deter rogue traders, bogus callers and distraction burglars, the viewers are attached to a digital camera, and a bell on the outside of the door.

When a caller presses the button, a photograph is automatically taken of them. The householder can view a moving image of the caller and, at the touch of a button, take another picture, all saved on a memory card with a time and date recorded. They also work at night, using special lights.

Beat manager for Chipping Sodbury and Yate, Acting Sergeant Neil Whyman, said: “People feel safer because they can actually view the person clearly using the screen.

“From an evidence point of view, it will be easier to identify a suspect and take the investigation forward as we will have a photograph of them. It also acts as a deterrent because if people know they could have their picture taken and they are not a genuine caller, then it will put them off calling in the first place.”

Western Power Distribution has donated £2,000, which will pay for about 20 of the electronic viewers. If funding can be secured, it is hoped many more people will be given the devices and it could be extended to Bristol.

Gwyn Jones, WPD’s distribution manager for Bristol, said: “By providing funding for these special door cameras we hope we can help reduce crime and encourage vulnerable people to feel more secure.”

South Gloucestershire’s first No Cold Calling Zones – marked by signs and stickers – were introduced by the police and Trading Standards in June. To find out more about No Cold Calling zones call Trading Standards on 01454 864419. Find a reputable tradesman by ringing Consumer Direct on 08454040506 or visit