The support available for rural businesses in Rural Rutland affected by crime is a crucial consideration, given the unique challenges faced by businesses in isolated areas. While Rural Rutland boasts a comparatively good safety score of 88 out of 100 (compared to a UK average of 79), its crime rate of 46.6 incidents per 1,000 residents is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6. However, even lower crime rates can impact businesses significantly in a smaller, rural community.
Currently, there isn’t a dedicated, bespoke support scheme specifically for businesses in Rural Rutland. However, businesses can access several avenues of assistance. Firstly, Rutland County Council's community safety team is a key point of contact. They can offer advice on crime prevention measures, including security assessments and improved lighting. They may also be able to connect businesses with local police initiatives aimed at rural crime prevention.
Secondly, the local police force provides support. Reporting incidents promptly is vital. This allows the police to build a clearer picture of crime trends and allocate resources effectively. While specific details of proactive policing initiatives targeted solely at Rural Rutland are not publicly available, general rural crime prevention strategies are likely to be in place. These may include increased patrols and engagement with local communities.
Nationally, several schemes can offer support. The National Farmers' Union (NFU) offers advice and lobbying on rural crime issues. Businesses, regardless of sector, can benefit from their resources. The Rural Business Resilience Programme offers guidance on security and risk management. Additionally, the Home Office provides funding for various crime prevention initiatives, which are often delivered through local partnerships. Checking the Rutland County Council website and contacting the local police non-emergency number are good starting points to identify any locally-implemented programmes funded by these national schemes. Finally, businesses insurance providers often offer guidance and support following a crime incident, including advice on security improvements.