On 26 February 2026, Northumbria Police and Neighbourhood Watch announced they are looking for a volunteer coordinator to support the community in Washington, Tyne and Wear. This new role will act as a direct link between local people and the police, helping to share safety advice and crime warnings across the area.
The coordinator will use the Northumbria Connected platform to send out alerts and gather feedback from households. By taking on this position, the volunteer will help neighbours have a direct say in how local safety issues are handled. This effort is part of the Washington SARA Partnership, which includes Sunderland City Council and other local services working together to stop anti-social behaviour.
This recruitment drive follows recent changes to how the town is policed, including the relocation of the Washington Neighbourhood Policing Team earlier in 2026. Officers moved from their previous base to work alongside the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service at the Washington Community Fire Station. This move was designed to help different emergency services work more closely together in the same building.
The SARA model used in Washington was first created in 2020 to bring together police, council staff, and housing providers to tackle local crime. By finding a dedicated volunteer lead, the partnership hopes to keep a strong link with residents and ensure that safety information is passed on quickly. This volunteer position is a key part of maintaining a visible presence in the community.
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