The scheme invites trade van owners to sign up to a monitored vehicle watch programme, providing an additional and highly visible layer of security. Participants will receive professionally installed tamper‑proof identification stickers, clearly signalling that the vehicle is registered under the scheme and may attract police attention where appropriate and with the owner’s consent.

By increasing visibility and awareness, the CT1 Vehicle Watch Scheme acts as a strong deterrent to theft. It also supports the early identification of stolen vehicles, improving recovery rates and reducing the risk of further crimes linked to stolen vans and tools.

The initiative strengthens collaboration between police, security partners, and the public, creating a proactive network focused on prevention and helping van owners to actively protect their livelihoods.

This project represents a unique pilot across Havering and Essex and is currently limited to the first 1,000 registered vans. Demand is expected to be high, and eligible vehicle owners are encouraged to register promptly.

The scheme is free to join with no ongoing obligations, making it an accessible and practical solution for those serious about safeguarding their vehicles and tools.

Van owners wishing to take part can sign up and book a professional installation appointment via  vehiclewatch.ct1.com/ .

The post New scheme to tackle theft of trade vans appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

Members of the public have reported 55.7 million suspicious emails to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS). The free service was created by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in 2020 and since its launch has resulted in the removal of 250,000 scams across 443,000 malicious websites.

Why you should report phishing scams

‘Phishing’ is when criminals use scam emails, text messages or phone calls to trick their victims. The aim is often to make you visit a website, which may download a virus onto your computer, or steal bank details or other personal information.

The NCSC is a UK government organisation that has the power to investigate and take down scam email addresses and websites. Reporting a scam is free and only takes a minute. By reporting suspicious emails, messages and calls, you can:

• reduce the amount of scam communications you receive
• make yourself a harder target for scammers
• protect others from cyber crime online

How to report suspicious emails and text messages:

If you’ve received an email or text message that doesn’t feel right, STOP!

• break the contact – don’t reply, click on any links, call any phone numbers or make any payments
• check if it’s genuine: contact the organisation directly using an email address or phone number you know is correct, e.g. from your utility bills, via a search engine, on the back of your card or by calling 159 for banks
• Report suspicious emails by forwarding them to report@phishing.gov.uk
• Report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726 (it’s free of charge)

How to report suspicious phone calls:

If you’ve received a phone call that doesn’t feel right, STOP!

• hang up
• check if it’s genuine: contact the organisation directly using contact details you know are correct, such as those on a utility bill, official website, the back of your card or by calling 159 for your bank
• don’t trust the Caller ID display on your phone – it’s not proof of ID
• report it by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ followed by the scam caller’s number

If you have been a victim of cyber crime or fraud, tell the police at reportfraud.police.uk/ .

For advice and guidance on what to do if you have been a victim of fraud, please visit stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk/recovery-from-fraud/ .

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How to spot the signs of courier fraud

Courier fraud typically begins with an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank employee. Victims are told their account is at risk or that they are assisting with an investigation, before being instructed to withdraw money, purchase items, or disclose sensitive information. A courier is then sent to collect the items such as jewellery, cash, bank cards and PINs. In reality, this is the work of criminals and anything handed over is lost.

How to protect yourself from courier fraud:

• Transferring money: Your bank or the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account.
• Couriers: Your bank or the police will never send a courier to your home to collect bank cards, cash, or other valuables such as jewellery.
• Check if it’s genuine: Contact the organisation directly using contact details you know are correct, such as those on official websites, the back of your card or by calling 159 for your bank.
• Caller ID: Don’t trust the Caller ID display on your phone – it’s not proof of ID.
• Report suspicious calls: You can report suspected scam calls by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ followed by the caller’s number.

If you think you have been a victim of fraud contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website: reportfraud.police.uk .

The post Courier fraud targeting over 70s appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

‘As we enter the warmer months, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors with family and friends. Unfortunately, with the warmer weather we see noticeable increase in incidents involving open water, often with tragic outcomes.

During the last week of May, several heart breaking fatalities have occurred across the UK, involving individuals getting into difficulty in rivers, lakes, reservoirs and coastal waters. These incidents are a stark reminder that open water poses significant risks, particularly for young people who may be drawn to it during warmer weather. 

I would like to urge all parents, carers and guardians to have open and honest conversations with young people about the dangers associated with open water. While it may appear calm and inviting, the reality can be very different. 

One of the most serious risks is cold water shock. Even on a hot summer’s day, water temperatures in the UK can remain dangerously low. Sudden immersion can trigger an involuntary gasp reflex, rapid breathing, panic and loss of muscle control. Even strong swimmers can quickly find themselves in difficulty.

There are also hidden hazards beneath the surface. Rivers, lakes and reservoirs may contain debris, submerged objects, rocks, mud, weeds and reeds that can entangle or trap a person unexpectedly. Water depths can change suddenly, currents can be stronger than they appear, and safe exits are not always easily accessible in an emergency.

If you witness someone in difficulty in the water, your instinct may be to intervene immediately, however, entering the water can often place additional people at risk. Instead, follow this advice:

• call 999 without a delay and request the appropriate emergency service.
• In a large open area use What 3 Words to provide your exact location to emergency services.
• If possible, throw a floating object, such as a lifebuoy, and encourage the person to float on their back, while help is on the way.
• If it is safe to do so, extend a pole, branch or similar object from a secure position.
• Do not enter the water unless you are properly trained and equipped.

Each year, lives are lost in incidents involving open water that could have been prevented. By increasing our understanding of the risks and knowing how to respond in an emergency, we all have a role to play in improving water safety within our communities.

Please take the time to have this conversation today – it could save a life tomorrow.

Please, visit our Instagram page to find the video on water safety – 

instagram.com/reel/DZmuixCP5XC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== .

The post Met Police water safety advice appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

Property marking is a simple and effective way to help protect your belongings and deter theft. Bring along items such as bikes, tools, and electronics, and they will help you mark and register them.

This event is open to all members of the public – no booking required. Feel free to drop in at any time during the session.

The post Police property marking event Saturday 30 May 2026 appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

The Upminster Police Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) have been invited to an open day event on the 15 August 2026 at Stewart Avenue allotments (They will be there from 11am to 1pm).

The police have also given the following crime prevention advice –

Key Message for Plot Holders

Secure it. Mark it. Watch it. Report it.

Crime prevention works best when everyone plays a part.

Keeping Your Allotment Safe

Simple tips for new plot holders

Allotments are friendly places, but they are sometimes targeted for theft or damage. These easy steps help keep everyone’s plot safe.

Lock It

• Always lock your shed and gates, even if you’re “just nipping off”.
• Use a strong padlock on sheds.
• Don’t leave tools out overnight.

Take Valuables Home

• If tools are expensive (e.g. strimmers, drills), take them home.
• Avoid storing fuel or high‑value items on site.

Mark Your Tools

• Write your plot number or postcode on tools.
• Use a UV pen or permanent marker if you have one.
• Marked tools are harder to sell and easier to return.

Be Aware

• Visit your plot regularly.
• Say a friendly hello to people you don’t recognise – offenders don’t like being noticed.
• Let the committee know if something doesn’t feel right.

Report Problems

• 999 – if a crime is happening right now.
• 101 or online police report – for theft, damage or suspicious activity.
• Please report every incident, even small ones.

Look Out for Each Other

• Keep an eye on nearby plots.
• Share information with neighbours.
• A busy, active site is the best deterrent.

Remember

Lock it • Take it home • Mark it • Report it

Working together keeps the allotment safe and welcoming for everyone.

The post Allotment break-ins appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

‘If you or anyone you know has a work van, it is important to take a look at “Tell TVL” via telltvl.co.uk . “Tell TVL” is an online community dedicated to tackling theft from vans through crime prevention advice and a new incident reporting service. People can share information about van theft or break-ins to stay informed and vigilant.

By using “Tell TVL”, you can contribute to reducing theft of or theft from motor vehicles, which is one of our local ward priorities.

Please spread the word to help make our community safer.’

The post Crime prevention for work vans appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

Come and see our local officers iif you have any issues or would like crime prevention information.

The post Police community contact session appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

Come and speak to our local officers for crime prevention advice on a wide range of subjects, or to speak to them regarding any other local police related issues.

The post Upminster Police crime prevention stall appeared first on Upminster & Cranham Residents' Association.

Their officers will be on hand to offer practical advice and showcase a wide range of Gold standard, Secured by Design approved, security products. Information will be available on – 

• Hiplok
• Disklok
• TVL Security
• BikeTrac
• Datatag forensic marking kits
• SelectaDNA forensic marking kits
• Amorgard TuffBank
• VWAG information
• Rhino Trade Insurance
• Local Authority crime prevention advisers
• MPS engagement and information leaflets

Their Crime Prevention Chest will be on display, containing a selection of Gold standard products designed to help keep your tools, vehicles, and property safe. Officers will be available to talk through each option, explain how the products work, and provide tailored advice based on your needs.

Why not make a day of it?

Ride down on your motorbike, pedal cycle, or simply drop by in the car, grab a coffee, and have a chat with one of their officers about the latest security options available.

You’ll also be able to see demonstrations of forensic marking systems—a powerful way to protect your property and increase the chances of stolen items being recovered.

As a thank you for attending, members of the public will also be able to receive special discount codes for selected products.

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