Speak up about those harming Scotland's heritage & countryside

As the international tourist season starts and in partnership with Network Rail Scotland, we're launching a new campaign encouraging people to speak up about those causing harm and damage to Scotland’s countryside and heritage.

Crimestoppers is independent of the police and gives the public an alternative option - namely, to pass on what they know about crime whilst never giving any personal details. 

With many people planning trips to the countryside, the anticipated impact of large visitor numbers and effects of rural and heritage crime can be devastating to the environment.

Over 95% of Scotland is classed as rural and NFU Mutual estimate that rural crime costs Scotland around £1.8 million annually, with levels reportedly increasing. 

Whilst the volume of crime in rural areas is lower than in urban locations, the consequences within a rural community or environment often have a much deeper and far-reaching impact, both on the victim and community as a whole.

Crimestoppers, together with Police Scotland and wider rural and environmental organisations, are asking the public to spot the signs of rural crime and give information 100% anonymously. 

The key crimes that Scotland’s rural areas experience are:

• House-breaking 
• Theft of farm equipment, vehicles and machinery 
• Livestock-related crimes: theft and dog attacks 
• Fly-tipping and industrial waste dumping 
• Hare coursing and badger baiting 
• Fuel theft – domestic and commercial 
• Heritage & cultural property crime including illegal metal detecting 
• Wildlife crime 
• Wilful fire-raising

Telephone calls to Crimestoppers are not recorded and phone numbers are not recorded or tracked. Our online form is also totally anonymous, with no recording or tracking of internet sources.

So there is no way criminals can find out who has passed on information about them.

find out more about our guarantee of anonymity

Allan Brooking, Community Safety Manager for Network Rail Scotland, said: 

“Scotland’s Railway plays a vital role in connecting people with communities and attractions across the country, so it’s hugely important to us to help our partners protect rural areas from crime. We will be sharing the campaign’s message with passengers, and railway staff will also be equipped with information on what to look out for.”

Tell us what you know. 100% anonymous. Always.