Neighbourhood Watch is a crime prevention programme aimed at getting local communities in Ireland actively involved in observing and reporting suspicious activities. The programme involves creating a partnership between the Gardai and the community, which is designed to prevent crime and to help create a better environment in which to live.

The impetus to launch a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme may come from the local community or it may result from an approach from the Gardai. Normally, the local Superintendent will first arrange a meeting of interested individuals at which he/she will outline local crime trends, particular crime problems in the area, and ways in which residents can help the Gardai.

While Neighbourhood Watch is not a universal remedy for crime, it does have great potential in preventing certain types of crime, most notably burglary. It can also play a major role in easing the frequently unjustified, but understandable, anxiety and fear of crime felt by many citizens.