Angelique Foster, Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner, has unveiled a new joint blueprint setting out how partners will work together to prevent and raise awareness of rural crime.
The Derbyshire Rural Crime Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2027 has been developed by the Derbyshire Partnership Against Rural Crime (DPARC) following months of consultation and engagement with rural residents and businesses.
It draws upon the expertise and knowledge of rural experts, partners and stakeholders and outlines how the Partnership will deliver on its duty to protect rural communities and ensure Derbyshire remains a safe place to live, work and visit in the future.
DPARC was launched in September 2023 as part of the Commissioner’s plan to boost support for rural communities and businesses and promote the county’s work as a national leader in preventing and reducing crime. Rural Crime is a key priority in the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.
The new Strategy outlines the priority areas partners will focus on as part of their work to develop stronger support processes for rural residents and victims of rural crime and improve engagement with people and businesses in rural areas of Derbyshire.
The Strategy identifies three core priorities. These are:
- Preventing and Tackling Rural Crime
- Supporting Victims and Combatting Rural Vulnerability
- Improving Communication and Engagement
Launching the Strategy, Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster said: “We live in a geographically diverse county which poses unique challenges in terms of crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB). However, no matter where residents live, work or visit in Derbyshire, it is vital they are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves from crime and get help or support when they are at risk – and this is where the Strategy will deliver.
“As partners, we have been working together to tackle rural crime for a number of years. Tackling rural crime is a priority and significant progress has already been made in our capacity to investigate rural crime and support rural residents who have fallen victim to crime. This work has included the launch of flagship projects to reduce rural vulnerability and ensure people can access the help they need including victims of domestic abuse.
“We recognise there is always more to do. This Strategy will ensure our collective resources are used to maximum effect to protect our rural county from criminality. It will also help rural residents and businesses to feel safer, supported and listened to, and understand where to reach out for help if they need it. This is the high standard of service our rural communities deserve and will build confidence and trust in policing overall.”
The Commissioner has already invested in a new Derbyshire Rural Crime Prevention and Support Hub, which went live in February, offering information on all rural crime issues impacting the public including those relating to wildlife and heritage crime. The online resource directs users to specialised support services in the event they become a victim of crime and fulfils one of the Strategy’s key priorities; to improve communication and engagement with rural communities.
Since her election in May 2021, the Commissioner has held at least 30 rural-focused engagement events across the county which is where the concept for DPARC first emerged.
The Strategy has been brought together by the Commissioner’s team with contributions from the Partnership. It will remain under constant review by the Partnership to monitor delivery against its priorities and that it remains relevant to rural communities.