Community Speed Watch Scheme

Community Speed Watch is a national initiative where members of local communities, with the support and supervision of their local police, record details of speeding vehicles using approved detection devices. The scheme enables volunteers to work within their community to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding and to help control the problem locally.

The scheme is not to catch as many speeders as possible but to reduce speeds in areas of concern and to make drivers aware that excessive speed within posted speed limits is socially unacceptable. The aim is to encourage people to slow down without having to involve any further action.

The use of the radar devices will not lead to prosecution, registered keepers of vehicles breaking the speed limit are contacted by letter issued by Police explaining the potential risks and consequences of their dangerous behaviour. Repeat offenders receive a visit from the local police and could face criminal prosecution. 

The Policing team will coordinate the recruitment of Community Speed Watch volunteers and before they commence volunteering on the scheme, every volunteer will:

• Complete an application form
• Undertake vetting
• Receive a formal offer of appointment
• Attend a central induction

At the induction, the volunteers will receive a presentation on the force and their role, including information about insurance, expenses, recording of volunteer hours, problem solving guidance, GDPR, Code of Ethics and so on, as well as initial training in IT systems, if required. 

1. There should be a minimum of two volunteers in the scheme.
2. Volunteers must be over 18 years of age and will undertake the Police Support Volunteer recruitment process which includes vetting.
3. The locations for monitoring are chosen by the community, based on their experience and knowledge of the area. However, will be subject to an on-site risk assessment carried out by police.

If you would like more information on how to become a volunteer, please complete the form below and email it to trafficteam@salford.gov.uk.