Wokingham continues to be one of the safest areas in the country, with crime rates well below the South-East average. In 2025, we recorded just 3.9 crimes per 1,000 residents compared to 6.1 regionally—a testament to the strength of our community and the proactive steps we’ve taken to keep people safe. But statistics only tell part of the story. Behind every number is a person, and we know that issues like vandalism, anti-social behaviour, and fly-tipping can still have a real impact on daily life.
We are proud to work closely with the organisations that make up the Wokingham Community Safety Partnership, including Thames Valley Police, to prevent crime, reduce reoffending, and safeguard residents across the borough. This collaborative approach ensures that local priorities are addressed effectively and that resources are used where they make the greatest impact. Recently, the Police and Crime Commissioner and representatives from Thames Valley Police attended a meeting of Wokingham Borough Council. They provided updates on key issues such as anti-social behaviour strategies, neighbourhood policing, shoplifting, and road safety, and took questions from councillors—reinforcing our shared commitment to transparency and community engagement.
As Liberal Democrats, we believe in fairness, respect, and opportunity for all. That means tackling hate crime and ensuring everyone feels a sense of belonging. Community cohesion isn’t just a slogan—it’s the foundation of a thriving borough. Recently, we consulted on a new Community Safety and Serious Violence Strategy. Your feedback will shape our priorities for the coming years, and a draft will be shared early next year for further input. Because safety is something we build together.
Prevention is key. We’ve taken action to extend the Public Spaces Protection Order to curb disruptive car meets, and we’re investing in education and engagement. At the Youth Voices Safety Summit, attended by 160 young people and professionals, we sponsored an interactive workshop. Through theatre and real-life scenarios, participants explored misogynistic attitudes and learned practical bystander strategies—empowering them to challenge harmful behaviour and support peers safely. This is about fostering a culture of respect and equality, where every voice matters.
Innovation plays a role too. Our Community Safety Team delivered virtual education using immersive VR headsets, helping students understand the consequences of exploitation and make informed choices. And through initiatives like White Ribbon and 16 Days of Activism, we’ve partnered to promote training on domestic abuse for practitioners across Berkshire.
Our message is clear: Wokingham is a great place to live, but we won’t be complacent. We’ll keep listening, keep acting, and keep working with you to create a borough where everyone feels secure and valued. Together, we can build not just a safer community—but a stronger, fairer one.
Cllr Louise Timlin, Executive Member for Community Safety and Public Protection
