South Auckland seniors join hands with police through new Seva initiative

Seva Charitable Trust NZ’s new initiative Community Safety Ambassador Program empower older people to volunteer and foster community safety. Thirty senior volunteers have been recruited by New Zealand Police, for Community Safety Ambassador Program by Seva Charitable Trust NZ to build a stronger relationship between neighbours and the police in South Auckland. 

Trained senior volunteers will accompany police officers on a monthly basis as part of the new Community Safety Ambassadors Program. 

The community ambassadors will be handing out police  information, engaging directly with people, and hearing any  concerns the community may have and convey the feedback to the police.

Seva Head of Operations Nilima Venkat, acknowledges the support from NZ Police and said the response from older volunteers had been encouraging.

“We would like to acknowledge the support and guidance of NZ Police. Our volunteers recently completed training by police and are ready to begin in June this year. It is encouraging to see so many seniors eager to get involved and contribute to community safety,” she said.

The programme promotes active ageing and social engagement among older people in the Indian community while also assisting with public safety.

A senior volunteer, Mrs Smitha Parikh said the programme gives a sense of fulfilment knowing she can help the community by being present

“Being part of this programme gives me a chance to stay active, meet people, and do something meaningful for our neighbourhood. It feels good to know we can help make the community safer just by being present and listening,” she said. 

Mr Rajendra, another volunteer, said that the program enables the elderly to make a valuable contribution to society.

“I joined because I wanted to give back in a practical way. Walking alongside the police and talking with residents helps build trust, and it reminds people that seniors still have an important role to play in community life,” he said.

The programme's focus is to establish a more informal and engaging relationship between police and the community, especially those who may be daunted by formal reporting procedures. 

The aim is to reach residents directly in their own communities, to establish trust and awareness of local safety issues through direct contact.

Established in 2023, Seva Charitable Trust NZ supports the health and wellbeing of older Indian migrants in Auckland through culturally appropriate social services, advocacy and community programmes. 

It also runs Positive Ageing Day programmes in South Auckland, and offers a seniors coffee club twice a month in central Auckland.

The organisation also supports migrants and older people who are having difficulties, such as issues with abuse, neglect and social isolation.