Neighbourhood Policing Teams News
We wanted to share good news about how you will be able to have more direct local contact and engagement with your local neighbourhood officers, as part of the recently launched extended Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) in Essex Police. Over the past week, we formally introduced our extended Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) to the communities they will serve, and you may have seen media coverage of this, which will continue throughout the summer – here are some links with examples of coverage so far:
- https://www.itv.com/watch/news/catch-up-on-itv-news-anglia-east-from-wednesday-28th-may/jydxlwm
- https://www.facebook.com/EssexPoliceUK/posts/1037847161814322
- https://www.essex.police.uk/news/essex/news/news/2025/may/we-value-our-neighbourhoods-which-is-why-were-increasing-visibility-to-reduce-crime-even-further/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvjLwEeHjag
- https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/marie-goldman-mp-on-patrol-with-essex-police-teams-to-watch-the-great-work-they-do
In line with government funding decisions as part of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, we have moved 74 officers into neighbourhood duties, where they will focus on local issues and be more readily accessible to local people, including watch members. If you wish to contact your local NPT, please use the email address that covers your district :
Thank you for all of your ongoing hard work in helping to keep Essex safe, where crime is down by 9,600 offences (6.4%).
Crime prevention advice
Burglars are often opportunistic thieves who prey on houses and flats. They seek out any opening that they can take advantage of, specifically doors and windows that are left open or unlocked or are easy to force. Anything of value that they might spot through a window will only spur them on. But it really doesn’t take much to deter these thieves – just smart thinking.
Burglars target homes that they think will contain valuables. A sure giveaway is leaving packaging from expensive items outside your front door
Burglars often look for homes with windows or doors left open or with vulnerable features that they can exploit.
Burglars are aware of the times when someone is expected to be away from their house such as during the school run or holidays
Burglars typically do not want to be seen or heard and if they feel that they would be noticed by a neighbour or passerby then they are more likely to feel exposed and may move on to find somewhere else to burgle
Burglars often choose a home because they’ve spotted a specific vehicle, motorcycle or bicycle they want to steal – and the keys are more than likely to be inside the residence
Sheds and garages are often vulnerable as they are not that secure and contain tools which the burglar can use to assist them to gain entry to a home
It’s a fact that many burglars return to homes that they’ve previously burgled because the homeowner failed to upgrade security following the first burglary. They sometimes return to an area to try to burgle a nearby home that they spotted while committing a previous break in. Even more reason for you to ensure you keep your home as safe as houses
Be fraud smart
Fraud Prevention Tips
1. Protect Personal Information
Never share personal or financial details (e.g., passwords, PINs, bank info) unless you’re sure who you’re dealing with.
Be cautious with unsolicited messages or calls asking for sensitive information.
2. Think Before You Click
Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails or texts.
Look out for poor spelling, urgent language, or unfamiliar senders—these are red flags.
3. Verify Requests
If someone contacts you claiming to be from a trusted organization, verify their identity using official contact details.
Don’t be pressured into making quick decisions—fraudsters often create a sense of urgency.
4. Use Strong Passwords
Create unique, complex passwords for each account.
Use two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
5. Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly check bank statements and online accounts for unusual activity.
Report any suspicious transactions immediately.
6. Stay Informed
Keep up to date with common scams in your area or industry.
Follow trusted sources like Action Fraud (UK), or your local police.
7. Secure Your Devices
Install antivirus software and keep your devices updated.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions or logging into sensitive accounts.
8. Report Fraud
If you suspect fraud, report it to the relevant authorities or fraud prevention services.
In the UK, contact Action Fraud.