Have your say: Should Essex Police merge?
The UK Government is proposing massive national reforms that could see our police forces merged into fewer, larger organisations called Local Policing Areas (LPAs).  While the aim is to boost efficiency, these changes could seriously impact local accountability, community knowledge, and the visibility of neighbourhood policing right here in Essex. PFCC Roger Hirst wants to ensure your voice is heard before the Government makes a decision.
Take the 5-minute survey – Have your say on the future of policing in Essex – Proposed Police Force Mergers — Essex Public Survey 
Want to learn more first? To find out more please click here. (Note: Please insert your information link here)
Deadline: The survey closes on July 22nd 2026.
Need a hard copy? If you prefer a paper version, email pfcc@essex.police.uk or call 01245 291600.

Don’t Let Criminals Reap Your Harvest
As the busy harvest period kicks off, Essex Police’s Rural Engagement Team is warning farmers that criminals are on the lookout for easy targets.  High-value, portable GPS equipment remains the number one target for thieves.
Quick Security Tips:
Lock it away: Remove GPS kits and store them securely out of sight when not in use.
Mark it: Clear and permanent postcode marking makes kits harder for thieves to sell on.
Code it: Always activate PIN security on your GPS units.
Park smart: Keep tractors and combine harvesters hidden from view where possible.
How You Can Help
The Rural Engagement Team works closely with the National Rural Crime Unit, but they need your eyes and ears to make arrests.  If you spot suspicious people or vehicles around farms and machinery:
Report it online: Visit www.essex.police.uk/ro.
What to include: Give as much detail as possible (e.g., vehicle registrations, descriptions, or a What3Words location).
Stay safe: Never confront suspects or put yourself at risk.
Always call 999 if a crime is in progress or it’s an emergency.To report anonymously, contact Crimestoppers online or call 0800 555 111.
For more specialist advice on protecting heavy machinery, visit the Essex Police Rural Crime pages.

Vibrant Village Halls – Coming Soon
Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE) has just been awarded a grant of more than £200,000 over 3 years by The National Lottery Community Fund to support its new Vibrant Village Halls project. This will enable RCCE to expand their support for halls and work to secure their long-term future.  To find out more about RCCE’s plans for Vibrant Village Halls please click here.

Funding for Your Local Nature Project
Do you have an idea to improve nature in your community? v The Essex Local Nature Partnership Community Fund is now open, offering grants of £500 to £2,000 to help you bring your plans to life. You could create or restore habitats, improve green spaces, or help more people connect with nature, especially those who need it most. Applications are open to groups, charities and schools across Essex. To find out more and apply please click here.