Overview

• Safeguard Force will begin visible, non-confrontational patrols on August 11 across Bournemouth, Boscombe and local beaches to deter crime and assist vulnerable residents.
• The volunteer group has raised £3,155 via GoFundMe to purchase body cameras, stab vests and radios and is developing a mobile ‘Safeguard App’ for public SOS alerts.
• Organisers report a membership of roughly 140–200 volunteers including ex-military personnel, security professionals, first aiders and local residents with DBS checks and first-aid training.
• Dorset Police has engaged with Safeguard Force to review its operating model, vetting processes and safeguarding policies but is not officially endorsing the patrols.
• Local anti-racism activists warn that unregulated community patrols risk fostering division and profiling of asylum seekers and minority communities.