Herts police will no longer be using the OWL messaging system after this month.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has signed up to a new community messaging system to replace OWL (Online Watch Link) from April 1, 2024.

Over 30 police forces already use Neighbourhood Alerts and Herts' new free interactive local system will be called Herts Connected.

Chief Superintendent Dean Patient said: “We know that being part of a community messaging system helps prevent crime in local neighbourhoods and we continue this important work. 

"This is an exciting new chapter for us as we embrace new digital technology to help us send more local, targeted and relevant messages.”

He continued: “Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) and colleagues have successfully helped sign up 180,000 Herts residents to OWL. 

"We hope the majority of these residents will sign up to our new system."

He added: “Due to GDPR we are unable to automatically transfer members of our OWL system across and therefore residents will have to sign up through the link.”

 

What is replacing OWL?

The register to Herts Connected, OWL's replacement, visit https://hertsconnected.co.uk/

When you click on the link, you will be given the option of who you would like to receive messages from – including the Police and Crime Commissioner, Neighbourhood Watch and Action Fraud.

Your preferences will make your messages bespoke and not just related to your postcode. 

If you would like to verify the website or do not feel comfortable clicking the link, visit the Herts Police website, click on ‘Campaigns’ on the homepage and select ‘Herts Connected’.

This will direct you to the new messaging system.

Community Safety Inspector Nicki Dean said: “We will continue to update you about local crime, what your local officers are doing and how you can help shape your local neighbourhood priorities.”

Residents currently signed up to OWL will continue to receive messages until March 31, 2024.