Farm and rural watch
Farm and Rural Watch is a free Essex Police led scheme for our farming and rural communities. The scheme looks to address issues relating to crime and anti-social behaviour experienced by farmers, rural businesses and communities.
It does not replace Neighbourhood Watch, but works alongside it to further support those in isolated or sparsely populated places.
We want all those who take part in this Watch Scheme to feel more confident about their safety and security. By working together we can enhance the prevention and detection of crime. We can bring offenders to justice and recover stolen property more effectively.
Rural crime
Rural crime can mean any type of crime that occurs in a rural location, or where the victim is targeted because of their connection to a rural community, economy or area.
We recognise that there are specific types of crimes that only happen because the victim is in a rural community.
This can include:
- Crimes involving farm equipment and livestock.
- Crimes against small rural businesses.
- Wildlife crime, such as the illegal taking or trapping of animals or birds.
- Hare Coursing – causing damage to farm crops, livestock, perimeters and wildlife.
- Fly-tipping – Industrial scale fly-tipping where landowners are left to dispose of waste.
- Serious and organised crime - remote locations can be attractive for organised crime groups.
We know that being a victim of rural crime can go beyond purely financial loss.
We want to improve communication between the rural and farming communities and the police. We want to encourage rural communities to undertake appropriate crime prevention measures and report crimes and suspicious activity. We hope that by working together we can reduce opportunities for crime in farming and rural communities.
Member benefits
Through an Essex Watch Liaison Officer, Essex Police will keep in touch with members. We will:
- Liaise with Watch Scheme members through a dedicated Essex Watch Liaison Officer (EWLO).
- Provide members with information about crime which could affect them.
- Provide advice about security measures.
- Let members know about relevant news, event and upcoming meetings.
- Continue to work with key partners, our rural communities and neighbouring forces to tackle rural crime.
Contact Farm and Rural Watch
If you'd like more information about our Farm and Rural Watch scheme, or to register your interest, please contact us.