Press Release 26/10/2011
Sam engages with the next generation of Neighbourhood Watch
What started with the Leicester Mercury’s apprenticeship challenge to find 100 apprentices in 100 days has led to a Leicestershire 19 year old changing how the largest voluntary organisation in the UK engages with young people.
Sam Cox of Groby, Leicester began his role as Office Administrator in June of this year and works with a national small team based in Beaumont Leys. The team works with the National Board of Directors who represent the estimated 7.9 million Neighbourhood and Home Watch members across England and Wales.
The National Chairman of theNeighbourhood and Home Watch Network (NHWN), Jim Maddan praised the appointment of an apprentice:
‘Sam has been a great addition to the team bringing a new perspective and fresh approach to one of the most well-known and trusted brands within the UK. The use of social media such as Twitter and Facebook has made us more accessible to a whole new audience and new members.’
Sam manages the NHWNenquiry line along with the social media accountswith which he has managed to attract over 1,000 twitter followersand has successfully helped to promote and maintain the new national Neighbourhood Watch website The site was officially launchedduring National Neighbourhood Watch Week in June by Baroness Browning, the former minister of state for crime prevention and anti-social behaviour.
Sam is undertaking his apprenticeship with Leicester College and by the end of his apprenticeship he hopes to achieve his Level 2 NVQ in office administration.This is in addition to the newly launched national BTEC Level 3 Advanced Award for Community Advocates for which he is studying.
Shaune Kirk, Leicester College Lecturer said:
‘When Leicester College teamed up with the Leicester Mercury to match 100 apprenticeships in 100 days, it was fantastic that organisations of all sizes stepped up to the challenge. Apprentices were secured in industries including engineering, business, education, social care and health and beauty.
‘We are proud of how far Sam has progressed within his apprenticeship and the skills he has developed; we have no doubt that Sam’s success will continue as he aims to complete his qualification and progress inbuilding his career.’
When asked,Sam said
‘I enjoy my role at NHWN and feel privileged to have been given such a great opportunity within such a well-known organisation. Over the coming months I hope to further my understanding of the Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network as well as gaining more experience within my field of work.’
To follow NHWN on twitter @N_Watch or on facebook.com/ourwatch
Notes to editors:
For more information please contact Kate Daisley, NHWN Operations Director on 07827 837729 or email