National Rural Crime Action Week 2025 - Seeing the Bigger Picture

This week marks National Rural Crime Action Week 2025, led by the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN). The Rural Services Network is proud to be a partner, joining forces with organisations across the country to shine a light on the hidden impacts of rural crime.

From stolen farm equipment and livestock theft to fly-tipping, poaching, and heritage crime, the costs go far beyond what we see at first glance. Rural crime cost the UK an estimated £44.1m last year, but the financial figure is only part of the story. Behind every theft or act of damage lies a chain of consequences: lost income, community disruption, strain on already stretched public services, and in many cases, lasting fear.

That fear of crime is a powerful factor in rural life. Even where actual incidents are less frequent, the perception of vulnerability can leave people feeling isolated, unwilling to go out after dark, or anxious about their livelihoods. Fear weakens community resilience and places additional pressures on wellbeing and services.

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network: "Rural crime doesn’t just leave a financial footprint – it chips away at confidence, wellbeing and community life. Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live and work, and tackling rural crime requires recognising both the visible and hidden impacts".

Through daily themes, the campaign is highlighting how rural crime is bigger than you think: damaging cultural heritage, increasing costs for farmers and landowners, and leaving local authorities to fund expensive clear-ups. By raising awareness, sharing insights, and encouraging prevention, partners aim to strengthen rural voices and protect communities.

Find out more and follow the week’s themes at NRCN’s campaign page and on social media.