The views of rural communities across Essex are being represented at the new Essex Police Rural IAG (Independent Advisory Group).
Fourteen people from various rural backgrounds, including farmers, business organisations, landowners and the NFU, agreed terms of reference at their first meeting on 30 September.
The initiative arose out of a meeting in July between then Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington, local farmers and the NFU, with the aim of providing a direct line of communication between rural communities and Essex Police.
Essex Police believes it is the first IAG in the country to focus on crimes that specifically affect farmers and rural communities, such as theft of agricultural vehicles and machinery, hare coursing and poaching, livestock worrying, offences targeting stables and large-scale fly-tipping.
Superintendent Darren Deex said the aim is to strengthen two-way communication between Essex Police and rural stakeholders.
“IAG members are a representative cross-section but independent of the police. They will act as critical friends, providing impartial advice, feedback and constructive challenge to help ensure the voices of rural residents and businesses are reflected in our policing decisions,” he said.
“The group will help us better understand the concerns, experiences and needs of the unique challenges faced by rural residents, businesses, farmers, landowners and other rural organisations across Essex.
“And members will be able to provide valuable insight into the impact of crime and anti-social behaviour in rural areas, where victims can often be left feeling vulnerable because of their geographical isolation.
“They will also support the development of our policing strategies and tactical operations, by helping us to identify emerging issues and developing crime trends while helping to shape practical solutions which improve our service and build public confidence.”
The group will hold quarterly meetings at ARU Writtle College. The next will be in mid-January, where a chair, vice-chair and administrative assistant will be appointed from the membership.