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Protecting Our Churches and Heritage Sites
Churches and heritage sites are more than buildings. They are community gathering spaces, and an important part of our shared history. Unfortunately, they can be vulnerable to theft, vandalism, arson, and anti-social behaviour.
Whether you are a churchwarden, volunteer, visitor, or local resident, there are simple steps you can take to help keep these treasured places safe:
Ensure all doors, windows, gates, and outbuildings are securely locked when not in use.
Regularly test and maintain alarms, CCTV systems, and security lighting.
Keep hedges and vegetation trimmed to improve visibility and remove potential hiding places.
Mark valuable items with forensic marking products or security marking schemes and keep an up-to-date photographic inventory.
Secure ladders, tools, and fuel containers to prevent them being used in criminal activity.
Consider installing timer switches on internal lighting to give the appearance of occupancy when the building is empty.
Encourage volunteers and visitors to report suspicious behaviour as and when it is happening.
Check roofs, leadwork, and external structures regularly for signs of damage or attempted theft.
Ensure keys are stored securely and access is limited to authorised individuals.
Display signage indicating that CCTV, alarms, forensic property marking are in use ensure signage also has rule setting to visitors at the location.
Develop a security plan and encourage regular inspections of the site, including outbuildings, churchyards, and monuments.
If you see suspicious activity around a church or heritage site, report it as soon as possible. In an emergency, always call 999.
By working together, we can help preserve these important community assets and protect them for future generations.
For more general crime prevention information please go to >> Crime prevention advice | Suffolk Constabulary Pc Yeldham - Community Policing Team 
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