Rural Crime Action Week highlights rising threats to Welsh Farmers
This Rural Crime Action Week (8th – 12th September), the Farmers’ Union of Wales and FUW Insurance Services Ltd are reminding farmers of the importance of being vigilant to the growing threats facing rural communities, with farmers often bearing the brunt of criminal activity.
Crimes such as machinery and livestock theft, vandalism, and trespassing are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leaving farmers vulnerable and eroding the traditional sense of security in the countryside.
One of the most alarming trends is the theft of high-value machinery. Tractors and quad bikes remain prime targets, with stolen goods frequently entering illegal markets. In 2024 alone, Dyfed-Powys Police recorded over sixty reports of stolen quad bikes across the force area.
As experienced in several Welsh communities over recent months, livestock theft is also a growing concern. Sheep and cattle, often kept in remote locations, are increasingly attractive to criminals seeking quick profits, particularly during periods of fluctuating market prices. For farmers, the loss is not only financial but also has a significant impact on mental health and wellbeing.
As well as continuing to lobby the Welsh Government and police forces for greater resources to tackle rural crime, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) are reminding farmers to take proactive steps to safeguard their livelihoods.
Strengthening security with CCTV and secure locks, ensuring vehicles and machinery are properly stored with keys removed, and embracing smart technology such as GPS trackers and forensic property marking are all effective ways of deterring crime and aiding recovery of stolen goods.
The FUW also stressed the importance of building stronger links with local police forces. Prompt reporting of all crimes and suspicious activity is essential to ensure rural crime is properly recorded and resources are allocated where they are most needed.
Commenting Gemma Haines, FUW Policy Officer said:
“Rural crime is too often underreported, which leads to a serious underestimation of its scale. We urge farmers to remain vigilant, take practical security measures, and work closely with police and their local FUW county office. Together, we can help protect our rural communities and the future of Welsh farming.”
Farmers are also reminded of the importance of having the correct insurance cover in place. Comprehensive insurance can help protect farmers from the severe financial losses that follow incidents of theft, vandalism or damage. Farmers are encouraged to regularly review their policies and seek expert advice to make sure their cover reflects the true value of their machinery, livestock, and property.
Heledd Roberts, FUW Insurance Services Account Executive added:
“Even with the best preventative measures, crime can never be eliminated entirely. Insurance is one of the most important safety nets farmers can have, and having the correct cover in place provides peace of mind that should the worst happen, your business can recover quickly and you are not left to carry the financial burden alone.
At FUW Insurance Services Ltd, we don’t just provide tailored Farm Insurance solutions for rural businesses – we build long-term relationships with our clients, offering ongoing support and guidance to protect their livelihoods well into the future.”
Farmers seeking advice or assistance in reporting crimes are encouraged to contact their local FUW county office.
FUW Insurance Services is a trading style of FUW Insurance Services Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Firm Reference Number (FRN) 615251. Registered firm and address : FUW Insurance Services Limited, Llys Amaeth, Plas Gogerddan, Penrhyncoch, Aberystwyth, Dyfed, SY23 3BT. Registered in England & Wales 07981993.