Biggleswade Community Safety Group

31/10/2026

30/10/2026

Gaslighting is more than lying—it's a form of emotional abuse that makes someone question their own thoughts, feelings, memories and reality.

If someone constantly tells you "that never happened," "you're too sensitive," or "you're imagining things," trust your instincts. Your experiences are valid.

Awareness is the first step towards recognising abuse. There is support, there is hope, and there is a way forward. 💜 Bedfordshire Council Police Bedford Borough Council Luton Council

30/10/2026

More scams!

Amazon updates consumers with the latest information on the top scams to watch out for. Continue to check this page for updates and to view our previous alerts.

30/10/2026

29/10/2026

A recent streetwatch patrol report on the dangerous play equipment and damaged fencing has been shared with the developer who has acted and the fences were put back up today. Thank you from the Maythorns residents! Lets hope they fix the play equipment soon!

28/10/2026

| The evenings are getting darker, Halloween celebrations are already under way and Bonfire Night is just around the corner 🎃🎇

As we head into one of the busiest periods of the year for policing, we're encouraging people to help keep Bedfordshire safe by making the right call and acting responsibly.

We’ll have additional police resources dedicated to patrolling busy areas over Halloween and Bonfire Night, and we will continue to prioritise and support those in urgent need of assistance.

Our teams work exceptionally hard to make sure people get the help they need and have managed sustained high levels of demand throughout the summer and into autumn.

But we’re asking everyone to play their part in helping us remain available for those who really need us.

Remember 999 should only be used in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.

For non-emergencies, our online reporting forms, webchat service and 101 service are all still available 24/7.

Some issues may also not require police involvement at all - for example, complaints about noise or minor neighbour disputes may be better directed to your local council, housing association or another appropriate agency.

To help people make the right call, we've highlighted some of the most common calls we receive in our Stories today, along with the most appropriate service or agency to contact for support 📲

We’re also asking people to think about how their behaviour might affect others - what may seem like harmless fun to one person could be frightening, intimidating or distressing to someone else, particularly vulnerable members of our communities.

So whether it’s respecting those who choose not to take part in Halloween activities, using fireworks legally and safely, or taking a moment to consider the most appropriate reporting channel or agency to contact, everyone can play a part in helping to keep people safe throughout the autumn festivities, and ensuring emergency services are available for those who need them most.

For more advice on staying safe this autumn, visit https://orlo.uk/OM6rN

28/10/2026

28/10/2026

More advice

🏠 Warning as burglars target rural homes

Burglars have been targeting larger, detached homes in rural and semi-rural parts of the county.

In many instances they have managed to gain entry to homes via upstairs windows, which are often left unlocked.

Making your home more secure is a good way to deter burglars and good home security begins outside the home.

🔒 Secure your garden
• Ensure rear fencing is in good condition to prevent easy access points.
• Ensure fencing is facing the correct way (Nice side facing out) as this prevents a climbing aid.
• Increase fence height if possible or install trellis.
• Plant defensive spiky plants along garden boundary (such as prickly hawthorn, pyracantha or berberis)
• Secure rear gates with high-quality locks and ensure they cannot be lifted off their hinges.
• Consider dusk to dawn lighting covering the property, side access routes and garden areas.
• Position CCTV cameras to cover rear gardens, patio doors, side gates and any areas offenders may use to gain access.
• Remove or secure ladders when not in use.
• Store bins away from walls and windows.
• Avoid leaving garden furniture beneath windows or balconies.

🔒 Secure your home

Inside the home there’s plenty of ways to make life difficult for burglars.

Residents should consider the following tips:
• Ensure first-floor windows are locked, even if slightly open.
• Adding defensive materials/anti-climb paint on flat roofs/drainpipes
• Install monitored alarm/CCTV systems or smart alarms with mobile phone notifications.
• Install a video doorbells camera
• Ask trusted neighbours to keep an eye on the property.
• Avoid advertising holidays or periods away on social media.
• Use timers on lighting to create the impression of occupancy when away.
• Smart lighting can provide a more realistic occupancy pattern.
• Keep jewellery and valuables out of sight.
• Do not keep large amounts of cash at home.

For more home security advice visit: https://orlo.uk/Run87

28/10/2026

Hopefully less on the roads now with all the seizures happening across the county!

Dear Santa...🎅

27/10/2026

The Office for Product Safety and Standards is investigating whether a Hoover tumble dryer complies with product safety regulations, after a coroner warned that 1.6m Hoover and Candy appliances could share characteristics with a model linked to a fatal fire. Find out what this means for owners and what steps you should take.