Neighbourhood Policing in Wokefield Parish
As of May 2026, Wokefield falls under the Pangbourne and Burghfield neighbourhood policing area, benefitting from a localized approach that prioritizes community engagement and proactive problem-solving.
The Team and Strategy
Wokefield’s safety is managed by a dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Team (NHPT), which is run by an inspector and includes police officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and special constables. The current strategy, overseen by the Berkshire West command, has recently seen an increase in the number of frontline officers as part of a force-wide "shaking up" of command areas designed to put more "bobbies on the beat."
The team operates on a model of:
- Visibility: Regular patrols in rural areas and village hubs.
- Engagement: Hosting "Have Your Say" events where residents can voice concerns directly.
- Resilience: Empowering locals to report issues through digital platforms and community messaging.
Local Priorities: 2024–2026
Recent community surveys have shaped the specific policing priorities for the Wokefield and broader Burghfield area. Key focus areas include:
|
Priority |
Action Taken & Current Status |
|
Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) |
Addressing reports of catapult use and damage in surrounding lanes; investigations into youth-related ASB are ongoing with a focus on education and enforcement. |
|
Road Safety & Rural Crime |
Tackling the illegal use of e-scooters and off-road bikes on bridleways and recreation grounds. Over 18 e-scooters were seized in the wider area as of early 2026. |
|
Retail & Property Theft |
Robust action against shoplifting in nearby Mortimer and Shinfield, including several arrests and charges for prolific offenders. |
|
Drug Activity |
Focused patrols and "hotspot" monitoring in known areas of concern to disrupt dealing and provide referrals for rehabilitation. |
The Role of the Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG)
A cornerstone of Wokefield’s policing is the Burghfield and Mortimer Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG). This is a multi-agency body that brings together representatives from Wokefield Parish Council, local schools, and TVP.
The NAG acts as a bridge, ensuring that "hyper-local" issues—such as speeding on Goring Lane or specific incidents at Goodboys Lane junction—are escalated to the police even if they don't meet the threshold for emergency 999 response. The group emphasizes the importance of reporting all accidents, even non-injury ones, to ensure the Parish has the data required to lobby for road safety improvements.
How to Stay Informed and Involved
Residents are encouraged to be the "eyes and ears" of the community.
- Thames Valley Alert: A free messaging service providing crime alerts and prevention advice tailored to the RG7 postcode.
- Reporting: Use 101 for non-emergencies or the TVP online reporting portal. Always use 999 if a crime is in progress or there is immediate danger.
- Community Meetings: Keep an eye on the Wokefield Parish Council web site newsletter for dates of the next "Community Walkabout" or "Have Your Say" meeting.
By fostering these links, Wokefield remains a resilient community where policing is a shared responsibility rather than a distant service.