The Rural Services Network (RSN) remains steadfast in its mission to confront the unique challenges that rural communities face. We are participating in the National Rural Crime Action Week, currently taking place until 25th October 2024. This week provides an important opportunity for us to contribute to improving safety and security in rural Britain.

As an active board member of the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN), the RSN enhances our collective efforts to influence policies and safeguard community well-being effectively.

Rural crime encompasses a wide range of illegal activities with severe impacts on rural life. This includes, but is not limited to, theft from farms, livestock rustling, and the growing menace of heritage crime, which poses a significant threat to our historical sites.

NFU Mutual reports a concerning trend in rural crime, with a 4.3% increase in the previous year, pushing the financial toll to an alarming £52.8 million. This stark rise highlights the growing economic and emotional strain on our rural communities.

In line with broader national safety efforts, the Rural Crime Policy Roundtable has been strategically scheduled for 15th November 2024 to align with the Home Office’s anti-social behaviour action week. This critical meeting will be accessible online and in-person at the offices of Historic England, near Cannon Street, London.

This Week’s Focus

As Rural Crime Action Week progresses, each day is dedicated to a specific aspect of rural crime:

• Tuesday 22nd: Front-line efforts against organised crime groups.
• Wednesday 23rd: Celebrating the contributions of our partners and associate members.
• Thursday 24th: Tackling livestock attacks, heritage crime, fly tipping, and other threats.
• Friday 25th: Addressing isolation and remoteness challenges, including mental health and domestic abuse.

Your Participation is Crucial!

The RSN's engagement in the NRCN and our upcoming presence at the Rural Crime Policy Roundtable demonstrate our unwavering commitment to rural safety. We invite all stakeholders to join us this week to further our collective efforts in creating a safer, thriving rural environment. You are encouraged to utilise resources from the National Rural Crime Network’s resource page to make a meaningful impact.

Together, it is imperative to address the complexities of rural crime, ensuring our countryside remains a treasured, secure home for all its residents.