Spotlight on countryside crime - policing chief urges Northumberland households to come forward

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, is inviting them to take part in a survey on fighting and preventing crime, to ensure the views of the region’s rural communities are used to help shape future policing plans.

She wants to make sure valuable insight from Northumberland residents is captured and all feedback will inform a new Police and Crime Plan outlining what the force should focus on to ensure the Northumbria area stays one of the safest regions in the country.

Ms McGuinness said: “I want to get a lot out of this survey and the more insight, knowledge and opinion from our farmers and rural residents the better. Their opinions need to be heard – this survey is for you, I’m listening.

“Crime is crime, no matter where it takes place. Rural, urban – we need to fight it and prevent it happening in all corners of the region.

“This is not only an opportunity to really get a handle on the types of crimes farmers are experiencing but crucially how they feel about the policing response.

“I also know that a lot of rural crime goes unreported – talk to me about why this is the case and what we can do about it.”

Cllr Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said he knew from his own experience the issues that some in the countryside face.

He said: “As a farmer myself, I know the issues faced by those of us living and working in rural and sometimes very isolated areas.

“While crime levels may not be high, it’s important everyone feels safe in their local community and knows police are on hand if needed.

“The views of farmers are important in helping shape the future of policing in our county and beyond and I hope people can spend a few minutes taking part in this survey.”

The survey is available online at http://bit.ly/PCPCon2020 until Friday, December 4.

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