About us
Since 1998, the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust (WBVT) has worked in partnership with Wiltshire Police to provide a home security service for older people and people with disabilities throughout Wiltshire and Swindon. We fund the operation of three Bobby Vans which provide mobile workshops for our Bobby Van Operators.
Our operators are skilled carpenters and lock fitters who are are also trained in crime reduction
Our service
Our operators are skilled carpenters and lock fitters who are are also trained in crime reduction to provide reassurance to clients.
Bobby Vans are directed to their tasks by coordinators working from an operations room, who receive referrals, decide on work priorities and despatch the vans using sophisticated communications equipment.
On arrival the operators conduct a security audit with the permission of the client, fit the necessary security equipment to ensure the home is safe. They will discuss all aspects of home and personal safety, as well as providing practical measures. Because we fund this ourselves, the service and equipment is provided free of charge to our clients.
Our mission
We aim to help elderly or vulnerable people who have been victims of, or are considered to be at risk of, house crime, hate crime, domestic abuse or fire. The trust was set up in 1998, the first of its kind to be established in England. It is overseen by a board of trustees chaired by Philip Coward.
We work with Wiltshire Police, as well as a number of other agencies, to ensure that the most effective use is made of facilities and support available and those in need of help receive it promptly.
Stay Safe Online
In May, 2017, working in partnership with Wiltshire Police, we launched a bespoke Online Safety Initiative – Stay Safe Online. The service is available to people who are over 60 or over 18 with a registered disability.
Our ten trained Stay Safe Online Volunteers provide: improved digital security awareness, scam prevention advice, support and reassurance; basic practical skills for checking and understanding digital privacy settings; and signpost people to future sources of advice and resources. The service offers one-to-one home visits and community group talks, and is managed by a dedicated Stay Safe Online Coordinator.
Our funding
We receive no statutory funding and rely upon fundraising activities, sponsorship and donations to continue to provide this practical and vital community service.
Audited report and accounts can be obtained by calling our office.