Pension Fraud, Hate & Knife Crime

Pension Fraud, Hate & Knife Crime

Hello Neighbours,

Did you know that fraud is the most prevalent type of crime in the UK? It accounts for about 41% of all crime according to the National Crime Agency. And it’s a growing problem. In this issue we’ve got a couple of useful resources on different types of fraud to help you protect yourself and others. Other highlights this month: 

·  Charlie’s Promise – a powerful message about reporting knife crime

·  Local spotlights on West Midlands and Leek

·  Organise a local litter pick

New video on investment fraud from the National Crime Agency

A new video has been released focusing on investment fraud as part of the National Crime Agency's Fraud Explained campaign. Investment fraud occurs when criminals promote fake investment opportunities and promise high returns with little or no risk. Fraudsters often use convincing websites, social media adverts and persuasive sales tactics to gain trust and steal money. The video highlights the warning signs to look out for and practical steps people can take to protect themselves before investing. Watch the Investment Fraud video. 

£51million stolen nationally from pensioners by those in positions of trust

We’ve been working with the Home Office and partners to raise awareness of fraud by abuse of position of trust. This type of fraud is when someone abuses their position for personal or financial gain. For example, a charity trustee may divert donations meant to support a cause into a personal account, or a relative with lasting power of attorney may use their access to another person's bank accounts to steal funds.

Data from Report Fraud reveals that criminals stole £93.8 million through fraud by abuse of position during the 2025/26 financial year, with people aged 70 and over accounting for more than £51 million of those losses. Find out how to recognise the signs and what to do on the Report Fraud website. The number to call Report Fraud is 0300 123 2040. 

Local spotlight: West Midlands Neighbourhood Watch Association

On 12 September, coordinators and volunteers came together at West Midlands Police Headquarters in Birmingham to celebrate the launch of the new West Midlands Neighbourhood Watch Association. It was opened by Simon Foster, Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands, who spoke about the vital role Neighbourhood Watch plays in creating safer, stronger, and more connected communities.  Congratulations on a hugely successful launch. Read the full story on our website.

September is World Cleanup month

We are so grateful to the many brilliant Neighbourhood Watch groups that organise litter picks, and we know there are many benefits. They build a sense of community, keep streets litter free, which is good for wildlife and the environment. By encouraging residents to take action on local issues, they can also help deter antisocial behaviour. If you’ve been thinking about organising a litter pick, now is a great time be part of the World Cleanup movement. Find useful resources on the World Cleanup site and updated litter pick information for Neighbourhood Watch groups. 

Hate Crime Awareness Week 2026

10-17 October is Hate Crime Awareness Week. The annual event is organised by the charity 17-24-30 NationalHCAW. It is a week of action that encourages authorities (government, police and councils), key partners (business and voluntary sectors), and communities affected by hate crime to work together to tackle hate crime across the UK. Check out their information on how to run or support an event near you. 

Local Spotlight: Leek – Radio interview

Angie Balwako, the NW coordinator for Leek in Staffordshire, spoke to Stuart George at BBC Radio Stoke about why they’ve set up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. It's a brilliant interview, the project is thriving, and it’s great to see how local people are being empowered to tackle antisocial behaviour in the area. The show is available online – scroll to 2 hours 10 minutes to listen. Listen now. 

Government expands crackdown on knife crime after knife robberies drop by almost a quarter

More than 230 areas most affected by knife crime will see increased police patrols, CCTV and early intervention work as part of a nationwide crackdown across 27 police forces in England and Wales. The Home Office is backing local plans developed by police and councils to tackle crime, save lives and protect communities. Each plan will be tailored to local needs. Read the full story on our website.

If you’d like to read an online version of the newsletter, you can find one on our website here.