Why has the National Rural Crime Network been set up?
Police and Crime Commissioners representing rural communities across England and Wales felt that more needed to be done to highlight the needs of the communities they represent. In addition, when considering the evidence base of ‘what works’ in policing, there are clearly opportunities to consider in greater detail effective policing, crime prevention and community safety in rural areas. As a consequence, 28 Police and Crime Commissioners with significantly rural constituencies came together to establish the Network.
Is there an official definition of rural crime?
No, but you may find different policing areas have their own versions – please contact your local Police and Crime Commissioner. At the National Rural Crime Network, we feel a tightly-defined definition may be counter productive as it would run the risk of excluding some crime types. We are therefore concerned with all crime and anti-social behaviour occurring in rural areas.
What constitutes a 'rural area'?
For the purpose of our research, we have used the 2011 Rural-Urban Classification of Local Authority Districts and other higher level geographies definition of rurality.
Is the National Rural Crime Network a political organisation?
No, the Network is deliberately non-political and comprises a range of organisations who either represent or have an interest in rural community safety in its broadest sense. Members include Police and Crime Commissioners from across the political spectrum, charities, commercial and non-for-profit organisations.
How is the Network funded and what is its’ budget?
In its first two years the Network was funded primarily by its members and the Home Office via the Police Innovation Fund. The finances and budget are administered by North Yorkshire Police.
How many people does the Network employ?
The National Rural Crime Network has no direct employees of its own. However, it is supported by a secretariat based at the Rural Services Network (RSN). The RSN represents the interests of rural service providers and their rural communities including 150 Local Authorities and over 100 public and private sector service providers. In addition, individual members also provide ad hoc support as required.
How is the Network managed and governed? Who is accountable?
The Network has published its Terms of Reference and is governed by a Board. Board meetings are quarterly, with the Annual General Meeting being held every year in May. Board meeting minutes are published and the finances are available for public scrutiny. In addition, the NRCN has published a Constitution, which was approved by the Home Office as part of the conditions attached to the grant funding received by the Network.
How can I contact your team?
For all general enquiries you can visit our Contact Page and we’ll aim to respond within 48 hours. If you require help sooner, take a look at our Twitter and Facebook pages.