Rural crime survey launched to assess progress in Wales
© Adobe Stock A Wales-wide survey led by Aberystwyth University has been launched to assess progress in tackling farm and rural crime across the country.
Funded by the Cymru Wledig Local Policy and Innovation Partnership (LPIP) Rural Wales, the rural crime survey is being carried out in partnership with all four Welsh police forces.
The survey builds on previous editions in 2017, 2019 and 2022, which have contributed to changes in rural policing, particularly in Dyfed-Powys.
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Open to farmers and rural residents, the survey revisits key concerns raised in earlier studies to evaluate the effectiveness of current interventions and understand community perceptions of crime.
The findings are intended to inform rural policing strategies, academic research and the development of local support measures.
The survey covers four key themes:
- Farm theft and damage
- Crime in your area
- Wildlife and environment
- Impact of crime on people and wellbeing.
Dr Gareth Norris, from the Department of Psychology at Aberystwyth University, said: “Rural crime affects people’s sense of safety and wellbeing as much as it affects property.
“This new rural crime survey will provide insights into the impact of measures taken to support communities at risk, and ensure that the voices of farmers and rural residents are heard and reflected in shaping future support and policing strategies.”
Dyfed-Powys police and crime commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn urged participation: “This survey is an important opportunity for people to share their experiences and have their say by completing the survey.”
The survey is anonymous and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.