To keep Preston safe and running smoothly, it’s important to report issues to the right service at the right time.

👉 Simple rule:

·  Council = civil issues affecting your environment or quality of life

·  Police = crime, danger, or risk of harm

Getting this right means quicker action, better outcomes, and safer communities.

🏡 Report to Brent Council (Civil Matters) - www.brent.gov.uk

These are issues that affect daily life but are not immediate crimes or emergencies.

✅ Examples:

·  Fly-tipping, littering, or dumped rubbish

·  Noise complaints (loud parties, ongoing disturbances)

·  Street lighting faults or damaged public spaces

·  Abandoned vehicles

·  Ongoing neighbour disputes (non-threatening)

·  Graffiti or vandalism with no suspect present

👉 Example:
You notice repeated rubbish dumping in an alleyway.
➡️ Report it to the Council so they can clear it and investigate patterns.

👉 Example:
A neighbour regularly plays loud music late into the night.
➡️ Log it with the Council ASB team to build a case and take action.

🚨 Report to Police (Crime, Danger or Injury)

Contact police when behaviour involves criminal activity, threat, or harm.

✅ Examples:

·  Violence, threats, or intimidation

·  Drug dealing or suspected criminal activity

·  Someone carrying a knife or weapon

·  Domestic abuse or safeguarding concerns

·  Harassment, stalking, or sexual offences

·  Any situation where someone may be in danger

👉 Example:
You see someone carrying a knife in public.
➡️ Call 999 immediately — this is an urgent risk.

👉 Example:
You suspect ongoing drug dealing from a property.
➡️ Report via 101 or Crimestoppers (anonymous).

👉 Example:
You hear a violent argument next door and fear someone is being hurt.
➡️ Call 999 — don’t wait.

⚖️ When It Can Be Both

Some issues start as civil but become police matters if they escalate.

👉 Example:
A neighbour dispute becomes threatening or aggressive
➡️ Moves from Council → Police

👉 Example:
ASB involving intimidation, drugs, or weapons
➡️ Should be reported to Police

🛑 When to Act Immediately

Always contact police straight away (999) if:

·  Someone is in danger

·  A crime is happening now

·  There is risk of injury or escalation

📞 Quick Contact Guide

·  Emergency → 999

·  Police (non-emergency) → 101

·  Crimestoppers (anonymous) → 0800 555 111

·  Brent Council → Online reporting (ASB, environment, noise, waste)

💬 A Simple Way to Remember

✅ Mess, noise, or local environment → Council
🚨 Crime, risk, or harm → Police

🤝 Working Together

Every report helps build a clearer picture and allows the right teams to act.

👉 If in doubt, report it — you won’t be wasting anyone’s time.
👉 Your information could protect someone or prevent harm.

Together, we’re building a stronger, safer Preston.