Comissioner’s joint partnership on rural crime and making county safer

DERBYSHIRE police have 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 20242027 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 Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster’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

Commissioner Foster said: “We live in a geographically diverse county which poses a number of 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.”