Putting victims first in Rural Crime Action Week 

This year’s Rural Crime Action Week (8–12 September) focuses on the voices of those most affected, those who find themselves victims of rural crime. Across Avon and Somerset, I am working with communities to make sure they are heard, supported, and protected. 

Too often, those living and working in rural communities feel isolated, unheard, and overlooked. This week is about amplifying their voices and making sure they are at the centre of how we tackle rural crime. 

The National Rural Crime Network say the week is designed to, “shine a light on the realities of those affected, and the action needed to better protect them.” 

Our local commitment 

I remain committed to supporting victims and tackling rural crime in partnership with local communities, farmers, and businesses. 

Through the Rural Crime Forum and during my engagement visits, I have met many people who have been directly affected. Their stories make clear that rural crime is not just opportunistic as it is often carried out by organised criminal groups. This makes it a complex issue, requiring a joined-up and tailored response. 

What is rural crime? 

Rural crime can take many different forms, but it often falls into five key categories: 

• Agricultural: theft of machinery, fuel, and livestock worrying 

• Equine: tack theft and dog attacks on horses and livestock 

• Wildlife: hare coursing, poaching, and harm to protected species 

• Heritage: theft of lead from churches, damage to monuments, and illegal metal detecting (“nighthawking”) 

• Environmental: fly-tipping, waste dumping, and pollution of land or watercourses 

What’s happening during Rural Crime Week? 

• The Avon and Somerset Police’s Rural Crime Team will visit victims of rural crime to offer support and prevention advice. 

• Officers will work with neighbourhood policing teams to engage with local communities. 

• Victims not already part of Farm Watch will be encouraged to join, to strengthen how local communities respond. 

Supporting local solutions 

Making rural communities feel safe, heard, and supported is at the heart of our Rural Crime Forum strategy. 

Community-led initiatives like Farm Watch, Horse Watch, and Neighbourhood Watch already play a vital role in prevention, information sharing, and building stronger links between the public and the police. These schemes ensure quicker responses when crimes do happen and help to prevent them before they occur. 

The Rural Crime Forum provides a space for people to share their concerns, experiences, and ideas. While my office facilitates the forum, it is shaped by the people who live and work in rural areas to make sure that the solutions truly reflect their needs. 

Rural crime leaves a lasting impact, but no one should feel isolated or unheard. I am committed to working with rural communities across Avon and Somerset to build safer and more secure places to live and work.