As summer brings longer days and busier streets, Bedfordshire Police is stepping up its efforts to keep communities safe through a united, county-wide approach.
Under the banner of #TogetherForBedfordshire, officers are working closely with local councils, community groups, and the police and crime commissioner to tackle seasonal rises in crime and anti-social behaviour.
This partnership-led initiative is focused on increasing visibility, strengthening community ties, and delivering a policing response that reflects the unique needs of each area, from bustling town centres to quiet rural villages.
“We know that town centres can see a rise in offences such as theft, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour during the summer months,” said Chief Superintendent Jaki Whittred, who leads Bedfordshire Police’s Neighbourhood Policing team. “That’s why we’re focusing on a strong, visible presence in these areas, working hand-in-hand with our partners to reassure the public and crack down on the types of criminality that can impact local businesses and residents.”
While town centres remain a key focus, Bedfordshire Police’s commitment extends across the entire county. Community policing teams continue to operate in towns and villages alike, while specialist units such as the Rural Crime Action Team remain dedicated to tackling issues unique to more remote areas.
“Our approach is flexible and intelligence-led,” added Chief Superintendent Whittred. “We recognise that Bedfordshire is a diverse county with both urban and rural challenges. Our resourcing and response will reflect that diversity, ensuring every community feels supported and protected.”
Each summer, Bedfordshire Police prepares for an increase in demand, with anti-social behaviour and retail crime both rising in the warmer months. Additionally, with an increase in calls to our control room, the force is ensuring that its resources are best targeted to areas where we see the greatest increases.
In Bedford town centre, anti-social behaviour increased by more than 20 per cent from July to September compared to April to June last year (73-89 crimes recorded), and in Leighton Buzzard by around 15 per cent (155-176 recorded). In the Bury Park area of Luto, over the same periods, shoplifting more than doubled (51-126 recorded).
The #TogetherForBedfordshire campaign runs throughout the summer, reinforcing the message that safety is a shared responsibility, working together to build stronger, safer communities for everyone.
Bedfordshire Police will be working with teams from the three local authorities and support groups, and networks.
Councillor Steve Owen, Executive Member for Community Safety at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “As we head into the summer months, we’re proud to be working alongside Bedfordshire Police and our community partners to help keep our towns safe. Through drop-in events, weapons sweeps, business visits and youth engagement, we’re taking a proactive approach to tackling anti-social behaviour and crime. By working #TogetherForBedfordshire, we can make a real difference and ensure our communities feel supported and protected throughout the summer.”
Luton Council’s portfolio holder for community safety, Councillor Maria Lovell, said: “Keeping our communities safe takes genuine partnership and we are working side by side to tackle the issues that matter most to residents.
“Our priority is to ensure that everyone – residents and visitors – feel safe and can enjoy their time when out an about in busy, shopping areas of our town, especially with so many summer events taking place. We can see from the work already being done that this joined-up approach is already making a difference.”
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: “The best way to fight crime and tackle anti-social behaviour is by everyone working together and by listening to our communities. We know that our towns, our borough, and our county are fantastic places to live, work and socialise, and we’re determined to keep them that way.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, John Tizard said: “The Safer Streets Summer Initiative is very important to me as PCC, to our local authority partners and the government. We are strengthening our efforts to build safer communities across Bedfordshire. The approach is intelligence-led and partnership-driven, focusing on visible policing and local authority interventions to reduce crime in communities.
“The initiative supports my ongoing mission to strengthen neighbourhood policing, prioritise prevention, and drive system-wide reform. By working together, Bedfordshire is taking a stand against crime and anti-social behaviour, ensuring that every resident feels safe and protected.”
