Record numbers of rural residents and businesses have been supported with crime prevention advice and equipment to help improve their security over the past year, through a programme jointly funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Warwickshire and Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

The Rural Crime Advisor service supported 780 people across South Warwickshire during 2025/26, as more residents, landowners and businesses were helped with practical advice and support to protect their homes, property and livelihoods.

The service focuses on prevention, practical advice and reassurance, helping people take proportionate steps to reduce risk and feel more confident in their communities. Over the past year:

• Crime prevention event engagement increased by 73%
• Residential crime prevention referrals rose by more than 350%
• Loans of security equipment increased by 47%

This reflects growing awareness of the service and strong engagement from rural communities, with more people coming forward to seek advice and support before problems arise.

Thanks to additional funding from the Shared Prosperity Fund to increase working hours, the Rural Crime Advisors, Rebecca and Ali have been able to extend their support to the community extensively in the past year.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Warwickshire said:

"Reaching record numbers of residents and businesses with practical prevention advice is exactly what this programme is designed to do. By working in partnership with Stratford District Council, we are helping rural communities take straightforward steps to protect themselves and their property.

"Ensuring support is accessible and focused on prevention is a key part of reducing harm and maintaining confidence in local services."

A key area of growth has been support for residents in their own homes, with more people requesting tailored crime prevention visits following engagement at community events. This reflects increased awareness of the service and a willingness to take proactive steps to improve security.

Councillor Natalie Gist, Portfolio Holder for Law and Governance at Stratford-on-Avon District Council , said:

"The work of the Rural Crime Advisors is very valuable to our rural communities.  The joint approach between Stratford on Avon District Council and the Police and Crime Commissioner is helping us reach more people across our rural communities with practical advice and support.

"The strong level of engagement shows that residents and businesses value crime prevention and are taking positive steps to protect themselves, supported by a service that is accessible and responsive to local, rural needs across the District ."

The programme also supports wider community safety priorities, including helping residents and businesses protect themselves from vehicle?related crime, raising awareness of livestock worrying, and working with partners on local issues such as environmental crime.

Both organisations will continue to work together to ensure that rural communities have access to effective prevention advice and support tailored to local needs.

If you or anyone you know might benefit from a visit from the Rural Crime Advisors, please contact them via our website