Neighbourhood Watch

New Year Message from Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne - 11th January 2025

I hope you all had an enjoyable festive season and are happily settling in to 2025 as well as wrapping up warm in this very chilly weather.

Throughout December, Sussex Police again took part in Operation Limit - the annual national campaign that aims to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries caused by people driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Officers carried out increased patrols and set up random stop check sites along busy driving routes. More than 8,500 motorists were stopped and checked during the campaign this year. Last year's campaign totalled around 6,000 checks so I am pleased to see that Sussex Police have been even more proactive.

Police officers made 270 arrests on Sussex roads during the campaign and the majority of these were for drug-driving - more than 60 arrests were made following collisions. Whilst the officers’ diligent work delivers results in making our streets safer, it really is disheartening that so many people still do not understand - or choose to disregard - the dangers and consequences of driving under the influence or perhaps they think they will get away with it.

This campaign, alongside the year-round work carried out by Sussex Police, should be a clear message to those who choose to drink and drug drive that it is only a matter of time until you get caught and face the consequences. This could include a driving ban, a criminal record or even prison time.

I want to thank the residents and visitors of Sussex who have reported suspicious driving activity especially if it was someone they knew who was drink or drug driving. Submitting those reports isn’t always easy, especially when it means reporting family, friends or colleagues but it is always the right thing to do and it can save lives. I'll be scrutinising the work of Operation Limit and asking how the Force plans to keep Sussex roads safer in my upcoming Performance and Accountability Meeting with the Chief Constable next week. The meeting takes place on 16 January at 1pm and is webcast live.

In December, the Government published the draft Police Grant Settlement for the coming financial year alongside announcements on proposed additional funding for neighbourhood policing. The figures for Sussex Police amount to a possible total grant of £419 million for 2025-26 but it assumes that I will raise the local precept (the police element of your council tax) by the maximum amount allowed too. Sussex Police have made huge efforts to make efficiencies over the past year without reducing services and we have saved £5.7 million. However, we calculate a necessary savings requirement of £5 million for the year ahead which will not be without its challenges.

This week, my office and Sussex Police met with members of the Police and Crime Panel Precept Working Group to look at these figures and funding pressures in more detail and to consider feedback on police performance, public confidence and funding options. As PCC, I now have to consider what level of police precept needs to be set for the coming year to maintain policing services and my recommendation will be formally put before the full Police and Crime Panel at the end of this month for their approval.

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner

Sussex Police Burglary Alert - 11th January 2025

Please see below reported burglaries over the past few days.

03/01 - Kerves Lane, Horsham

Entry has been forced into a barn at the property and a quad bike has been stolen.

06/01 - Blaxton Down, Blackston Lane, Blackstone

Two motorbikes which were stored in a shed have been stolen. The building is insecure but a horsebox was moved out of the way to gain access.

07/01 - Manor Rd, Horsham

An e-bike has been stolen from an insecure shed.

07/01 - Kingsfield, Storrington

Attempted burglary of a flat on two occasions, whereby a suspect has pushed open the informants door and run away, and then pushed open the door again that was on the chain, and run away again.

08/01 - Orchard Rd, Horsham

Shed broken into and an attempted entry made at the back door. A motorbike for sale on Facebook has been taken.

Crime prevention advice can be found here https://www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice

Sussex Police Burglary and Vehicle Crime Bulletin - 7th January 2025

Please see below the fortnightly alerts for the period of the 20 December 2024 to 3 January 2025.

BURGLARY

23/12 - Kerves Lane, Horsham (between 12am and 6am)

A barn on the property has been broken into and a quad bike has been stolen.

VEHICLE CRIME

20/12 - Newdigate Road, Rusper

Car hire company have not had their vehicle returned to them as contracted.

20/12 - Sainsburys Car Park, Worthing Road, Horsham (between 12.30pm and 12.40pm)

Possible distraction theft whilst victim was putting their trolley back after shopping. When the person returned to their car, they noticed their iPhone and purse had been stolen, which contained bank cards.

21/12 - London Road, Washington (between 6.30am on the 21/12 and 7pm on the 22/12)

Car has been stolen from Wiston Estate car park.

22/12 - Weald Close, Horsham (approx 7am)

Third party report of an individual smashing a car window.

22/12 - Paget Close, Horsham

Third party report of an individual smashing a car window and theft from the vehicle.

25/12 - Stane Street, Adversane

Possible theft of motor vehicle involved in aroad traffic collision - enquiries are ongoing.

31/12 - Manleys Hill, Storrington (between 7.15am and 7.45am)

Informant explained that after loading their car and gone back inside, the vehicle has been broken into (believes they have inadvertently unlocked the boot when picking up keys, which popped the boot open) and golf clubs, shoes and wallet has been stolen.

Crime prevention advice can be found here https://www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice

Sussex Police Monthly News Bulletin - Horsham - 20th December 2024

The festive season is well and truly here and whilst you are enjoying the festivities, we are continuing to work to keep you and your communities safe.

It is also a time where people can feel alone and vulnerable and it is important that we take some time to check in with people around us. Within this bulletin, we will provide some support numbers should you or someone you know need them.

Appeals

Appeal for information after collision in Henfield

Police investigating a collision between a car and a pedestrian in Henfield are appealing for witnesses and information. The incident happened in the High Street near the junction with New Town Road in the village, between 4.50pm and 5pm on Tuesday, December 10. The pedestrian, a 77-year-old local man, sustained a serious injury. Meanwhile the driver of the vehicle, a woman whose age is not known, initially stopped at the scene, but left the area via Nep Town Road. Officers are urging the driver to come forward, and also want to speak with anyone in the area with relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage. Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, quoting serial 940 of 10/12.

Appeal for information following Horsham Park robberies

Police are looking to identify a man in connection with robberies in Horsham Park. Officers were called to a report of five robberies in the park on 24 September, where it is reported three people stole phones from five others around 4.30pm. Two male teenagers were arrested in connection with the incidents – an 18-year-old from Three Bridges and a 17-year-old from London – and have been released on conditional bail. Investigating officers would like to speak with the man in the photo, who they believe can assist with their enquiries. Anyone who recognises the person in the photo, or has any information, contact police online or call 101 quoting serial 1108 of 24/09.

Police offer £10,000 reward as part of renewed appeal for missing father and son

Sussex Police are renewing their appeal for information relating to a father and son who disappeared in Spain five years ago. Daniel (Danny) and Liam Poole have not been seen since travelling to Malaga in 2019 and, in 2022, the decision was made to treat their disappearance as a murder investigation. Sussex Police are now offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and charge of any person responsible for Danny and Liam’s disappearance.

Please read the full appeal here: https://www.sussex.police.uk/news/sussex/news/witness-appeals/police-offer-10000-reward-as-part-of-renewed-appeal-for-missing-father-and-son/

Women arrested for assault on Horsham restaurant workers

A woman has been arrested following an incident at a restaurant in Horsham. Witnesses reported seeing a woman in distress enter Smith and Western in East Street around 7.48pm on Friday 15 November. Two members of staff were assaulted with a glass – a male employee sustained arm and facial injuries and a female employee sustained facial injuries – and both were taken to hospital for treatment. It was witnessed by an off-duty police officer who had been dining with her family when the incident occurred. She acted quickly to detain the woman and call for assistance. A 36-year-old woman from Brighton was arrested on suspicion of two counts of causing grievous bodily harm. She remains in custody at this time.

Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme said: “This was a hugely distressing incident witnessed by numerous people, including families with young children, and I’d like to reassure the community that a suspect is in custody as we actively investigate the full circumstances. I’d also like to commend the actions of the off-duty officer, who detained the suspect and helped to administer first aid until further units arrived on scene. Officers are never truly off duty in their communities, and in this instance the officer went towards danger without a second thought.”

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting crime reference 47240224149.

Crime Reports

We continue to receive reports of thefts from vans across the district, along with burglaries. Garages and garden sheds continue to be targeted, so where possible ensure there is lighting and CCTV focused on access points.

For other ways to improve your home security, please visit Secured by Design for up to date crime prevention advice https://www.securedbydesign.com/guidance/crime-prevention-advice.

You can find out about local news from Sussex Police here https://www.sussex.police.uk/news/sussex/news/?newsCategory=News

Crime Prevention and support signposting

Property security

It’s a busy time of year for many that often sees people out and about, whether it’s for Christmas shopping or away visiting friends and family🎄 But don’t forget about your home security amid all the festive excitement! It’s vital at this time of year that you consider how secure your home is and protected from burglars’ prying eyes👀 Homes are often left vacant and vulnerable in December. So, remember to always secure windows and doors before you leave the house and consider leaving a lamp on if out during the evening🔆

Action Fraud's 12 Frauds of Christmas

🎁 Last festive season, online shopping fraud cost victims over £11.5 million. 👉 Follow these top tips to help keep your money safe and out of the pockets of criminals https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news/12frauds

Op Hope

Domestic abuse can come in many forms and may not always be obvious.

If you are controlled or physically, sexually, economically or emotionally abused by a partner, ex-partner or family member, this is domestic abuse. Our service does not stop and our teams continue to work 24/7 to be here when you need us. You are not alone.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Find information and support here: Advice about domestic abuse | Sussex Police or visit https://www.sussex.police.uk/police-forces/sussex-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/domestic-abuse/

Support Organisations

If you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, these organisations are here for you over the festive period.

Samaritans - If you're struggling to cope this festive season

“With the extra pressure that the festive season can bring, our worries and fears may seem worse this time of year. It's important you check in on yourself and look after your wellbeing. Here are some small tips to help you cope over the festive period. And remember, Samaritans volunteers are here for you whenever you need us, every day of the year.”

Contact - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

Mind - If you find this time of difficult, then MIND have some tips to get you through https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/christmas-coping-tips/

Age UK has a range of information and support, including financial advice - https://www.ageuk.org.uk/

Crimestoppers is speaking up about neighbourhood crimes. Robbery, theft, and burglary harm communities and have a long-lasting impact on their victims.

People not only suffer from the loss of their possessions, the invasion of privacy and violation of personal space, but some may experience emotional distress or be left with physical injuries.

Victim Support

If you have been a victim or witness of a crime, you are not alone. If you need help after a crime, get in touch with Victim Support for independent, free, and confidential advice:

· Call Supportline on 0808 1689 111

· Text Relay: use the https://www.relayuk.bt.com/how-to-use-relay-uk/download-app.html or contact us in BSL

· Start a https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat/

· Fill out our online form on the website https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/

Careers

If you're looking at a new career that is challenging and rewarding, then visit our careers page here https://www.sussex.police.uk/police-forces/sussex-police/areas/careers/jobs/

Free to Join Priority Services Register

As Storm Bert is affecting the UK, if you have not already done so this is a good time to consider registering for extra advice and support, including when there could be interruptions to your electricity, gas or water supply.

The Priority Services Register (PSR) is free to join. It helps utility companies, including energy suppliers, electricity, gas and water networks, to look after customers who have extra communication, access or safety needs. It helps tailor services to support households who need extra help in the event of a power cut, gas or water supply interruption.

Your energy supplier (the company that provides your electricity and gas) and your network operator (the company responsible for the pipes and wires that carry electricity and gas) will both keep a Priority Services Register.

To find out who these organisations are in your area please visit www.thepsr.co.uk and enter your postcode. Your electricity and gas suppliers will be shown; you just need to click the sign up button there to join their PSR. Electricity companies are, where possible, sharing PSR information with water companies, so you can get vital help and support from them too if there's a break in your water supply.

Please also consider helping others to join the PSR, for example, elderly relatives, friends or neighbours, people with serious medical conditions, or people who may struggle with the internet.

Who can join

You can ask to join your supplier or network operator’s Priority Services Register if you:

have reached state pension age
are pregnant, or have young children
struggle with speaking or reading English.

You can also join if you’re living with a disability or a long-term medical condition, including:

mental health conditions
conditions affecting your sight, hearing or sense of smell
conditions that mean you need to use medical equipment that requires a power supply.

Help is also available if your circumstances have recently changed, for example if you:

are recovering from an injury, or need support after a stay in hospital
have been bereaved
have lost your job.

What help is available?

Joining the Priority Services Register means you’ll be able to get a range of extra help when you need it. This could be all the time, or for a short period due to something that’s happened in your life. Some of the help you can get includes:

priority support in an emergency
wherever possible, advanced notice of scheduled power cuts
an identification and password scheme if someone needs to visit or contact you, helping you feel confident they are genuine
the ability to nominate someone to receive communications and bills from your supplier, for example a family member, carer or someone you trust
the chance to move your prepayment meter if you can’t safely get to it to top up
regular meter reading services
account info and bills in large print or braille
assistance reconnecting your gas supply, if you need it.

What help should I expect from being on the Priority Services Register during a power cut?

A priority number that you can call 24 hours a day
Text and voice message alerts, letting you know when they are aware of a large power cut in your area
Tailored support if needed such as home visits, hot meals, advice and keeping your friends and relatives updated
Where possible, text and voice messages when severe weather is expected, to help you prepare
In certain scenarios they may also offer a free hotel overnight and transport to the hotel
For complex power cuts their community welfare teams provide on-site support which includes hot drinks, hot meals, a Wi-Fi connection and charge points.

Additional information can be found at UK Power Cut? Call 105 For Free | Find Your Electricity Provider and Join your supplier’s Priority Services Register | Ofgem

How To Report Crime And Anti-Social Behaviour

Sussex Resilience Forum - Emergency Ready - 23rd October 2024

How prepared are you, your workplace and community for an emergency such as:

🌧️ Severe weather?
🌊 Flooding?
🔥 Wildfire?
🔌 Utility disruption?

Please have your say: https://sussexpolice.welcomesyourfeedback.net/srf

Your response will help us support our communities to be more resilient.

Sussex Police is a member of the Sussex Resilience Forum – a partnership of local organisations working together to support the local community to be prepared for and during emergencies.

West Sussex County Council Post-16 Transport Consultation

West Sussex County Council Post-16 Transport Consultation

Bramber Parish Council

Bramber Parish Council