In 2017 the PCC launched the Raise The Alarm Initiative in partnership with the Bishop of Norwich, Norfolk Churches trust, All Churches Trust and the Round Tower Churches Society with the aim to protect vulnerable churches against the rise in lead theft.

The initiative has seen the introduction of over 126 alarms. At the time of the Rural Policing Strategy Annual Report 2018-2019 we had seen a 57% reduction in reported lead thefts. In 2018 (01/01/18 to 01/01/19) there were 21 reports of lead theft in Norfolk. In 2019 this figure had dropped to 18.

Please remain vigilant around our rural churches. Report any suspicious activity as this may be a precursor to a criminal act. Don’t leave anything laying around that can assist offenders (tools, ladders benches near low roofs providing easy access). It may also be useful to consider setting up or joining a social media group with church wardens or caretakers to make others aware of any suspicious or criminal activity in or around the church. If anyone has had any success using other methods, please let other churches or the police know so that they can be circulated.