 No BBQs or fires in Sandwell parks and green spaces 🚫
Remember – barbecues and fires are not allowed in our parks and open spaces.
Officers are on patrol and you could be fined £100. In the hot and dry weather, fire can spread very quickly – risking lives and endangering wildlife. We have seen a number of fires on open land in Sandwell over recent weeks.
West Midlands Fire Service advises:
- Don't use disposable barbecues in parks, on grassland or in open spaces
- Don't discard cigarettes on the ground or from vehicle windows
- Take glass bottles and other items that could reflect sunlight home with you.
If you see a fire, call 999.
Read the latest 'Help us to help you' call from West Midlands Fire Service following the long hot dry spell of weather.
West Midlands Fire Service Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill has issued a warning that anyone who deliberately starts a fire could face a criminal record and be held responsible for damage they may never have anticipated. This follows a recent fire in West Bromwich where three firefighters and a member of the public required medical treatment for heat exposure at the scene of a significant outdoor fire believed to have been started deliberately.
Safer 6 – Working together for a safer Sandwell
From 8 June to 19 July, Safer 6 brought six weeks of community action to Sandwell's six towns, with residents, council services, West Midlands Police and partner organisations working together to create cleaner, safer and stronger neighbourhoods.
Across the campaign, residents took part in community events, litter picks, health and wellbeing activities, youth engagement sessions, road safety initiatives and crime prevention campaigns. Partners also delivered targeted enforcement activity, including vehicle removal operations, road safety enforcement and action against illegal trading.
Safer 6 once again demonstrated the positive impact of partnership working and community involvement, helping to improve local environments, support residents and strengthen community safety across Sandwell.
Find out more about this year's Safer 6 campaign.
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Sandwell strengthens support for tackling anti-social behaviour
Sandwell Council is continuing to strengthen its response to anti-social behaviour (ASB) through a £1million investment in its borough-wide ASB service, helping to provide residents with the support and tools they need to report concerns and improve community safety.
As part of this enhanced service, the council's ASB Team has launched a new Anti-Social Behaviour Evidence Booklet to support residents experiencing ongoing issues in their neighbourhoods.
The booklet offers practical guidance on how to record incidents, what information is useful and where residents can report concerns.
Collecting accurate and detailed evidence can play an important role in helping the council and partner agencies build a clear picture of what is happening and decide the most appropriate course of action.
The resource also provides a helpful overview of the reporting and investigation process, giving residents a better understanding of how concerns are assessed and how different organisations may work together to address issues and support affected communities.
By making it easier to gather and share information, the new booklet aims to empower residents, strengthen investigations and support ongoing efforts to reduce anti-social behaviour across Sandwell.
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Successful Op Advance in Sandwell
We joined forces with West Midlands Police – including the incredible police horses from the Mounted Unit – to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour as part of a special operation.
We were proud to be part of Operation Advance, a day of targeted action which included arrests, vehicle and road safety checks and much more.
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Positive action taken for serious breach of ASB injunction
A Sandwell resident was evicted from a council property in May 2026 following a serious breach of a court injunction.
The injunction had been obtained following incidents of threatening behaviour towards council staff, contractors and local residents. While the injunction remained in force, the individual assaulted a neighbour in an unprovoked attack and was subsequently sentenced to seven months' imprisonment for breaching the order.
Following this breach, the council successfully applied to the court for possession of the property, resulting in the eviction.
Evictions are only pursued in the most serious cases where other interventions have not been effective and there is a significant risk of harm to others.
The council and its partners use a wide range of measures to tackle anti-social behaviour, including warnings, support interventions, mediation and injunctions, with the aim of resolving issues and protecting local communities.
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Tackling modern slavery
The Modern Slavery Team co-ordinates Sandwell’s response to modern slavery, including receiving and actioning referrals, visiting locations of concern, engaging with potential victims, and working alongside a huge range of partners to safeguard victims and disrupt perpetrators.
If you have any concerns about possible modern slavery, please contact us by emailing Modern_Slavery@sandwell.gov.uk and we will work with you on next steps to be taken.
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Cuckooing update
Cuckooing is when criminals take control of a vulnerable person's home and use it for criminal activity, often exposing the resident to exploitation, abuse or intimidation. It is a growing issue nationally and locally, particularly affecting vulnerable residents. Recent national legislation has strengthened the response, making cuckooing a specific criminal offence under the Crime and Policing Act 2026.
Possible signs of cuckooing include:
- Unusual visitors regularly attending the property, often at unsociable hours.
- Changes to the property's appearance, such as damaged locks, blocked windows or signs of forced entry.
- Sudden changes inside the property, including evidence of multiple occupants.
- Increased presence of drug-related items, multiple mobile phones or SIM cards.
- Changes in a resident's behaviour, appearance or wellbeing.
- Increased noise complaints, frequent visitors or disturbances.
- Goods regularly being moved in and out of the property.
If you are concerned that a property may be affected by cuckooing, report it to the police (999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergencies) and notify the council via Modern_Slavery@sandwell.gov.uk
Early reporting helps protect vulnerable residents and disrupt criminal activity.
Sandwell Council CCTV update
The CCTV and Concierge Team has shared an end of year report showing how it has supported Sandwell residents, businesses and partner organisations over the past 12 months. We have also invested in new CCTV cameras this year.
Further information can be found on our CCTV webpage.
Some of the work the team has been doing includes:
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Crime reduction and community safety
- We have monitored and responded to over 8,600 incidents of crime, ASB, tenancy breaches and tenant requests, demonstrating strong operational output.
- We have provided evidential‑quality CCTV to West Midlands Police 196 times, supporting arrests and successful prosecutions.
- We have helped to secure convictions, issue tenancy warnings and support ASB enforcement, directly improving neighbourhood safety.
- We have supported major operations such as Operation Hercules (car cruising/street racing), nuisance bike enforcement and tackling town centre crime.
- We have supported investigations into subletting, right‑to‑buy fraud and council tax discount abuse, providing crucial evidence.
Protecting vulnerable residents
- We continue to deliver 24/7 concierge support, acting as a lifeline for vulnerable tenants.
- We have handled 166,990 intercom calls, including 34,030 direct calls with tenants, providing reassurance and rapid response.
- We have conducted welfare checks and safeguarding interventions, helping to remove vulnerable people from dangerous situations.
- We have supported missing person searches through real‑time CCTV monitoring.
Tackling environmental crime
- CCTV footage has been used to identify fly‑tipping offenders, leading to £400 fines.
- We have also captured evidence to support enforcement of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), passing on footage of dog fouling to tackle breaches.
 Helpful resources for parents, carers, children and young people
Are you a child or a young person?
If you're a child or young person and need support, help is available.
The Sandwell Children's Safeguarding Partnership (SCSP) can help if:
- You're being hurt, mistreated or abused and don't know what to do.
- You're worried that another child or young person is being harmed or abused.
- You need advice, support or someone to talk to.
No matter what you're going through, you don't have to face it alone.
Access resources for children and young people.
Are you a parent or carer?
SCSP can also help parents and carers, including anyone with parental responsibility, children’s relatives, friends and neighbours who need information or advice.
Concerned?
If you are suspicious or have any concerns that a child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm, including any form of mistreatment or abuse, you can find out what to do below.
Affected or involved?
If you, or someone close to you, has been involved in a Child Protection enquiry, you can also find useful information on this website. Also see the SCSP Procedure regarding Child Protection enquiries.
Access resources for parents or carers.
 No one should have to experience violence, abuse or intimidation. Violence against women and girls – and all forms of harm – are unacceptable in Sandwell.
Staying safe when out and about
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Stay connected by informing trusted people of your whereabouts, travelling in pairs or groups and keeping your phone charged.
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Stay alert by sticking to well-lit areas, walking facing traffic and avoiding aggressive situations.
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Stay aware by always having your keys ready for easy access to car or home and, if necessary, find a busy place or knock on a door for help.
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Stay protected by carrying a personal safety alarm and using safety apps that can enhance your security.
Safety is a priority for everyone and knowing what to do in unsafe situations can make a significant difference.
If you do feel unsafe remember ReLATE
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Remain calm
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Leave the environment safely
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Alarm – activate a personal alert or call for help when feeling threatened
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Tell someone what has happened straight away
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Emergency – call 999 if needed
Empowering men to be upstanders
Men have the power to play a crucial role in addressing violence against women and girls. Men and boys can foster a culture of respect and equality, through challenging sexism and misogyny in daily interactions and standing up as allies to call out problematic behaviour or language among peers.
To reduce the anxieties of women in public spaces, men should be mindful of body language, keeping a steady walking pace and line, giving enough space for comfort and crossing the road to create an unimposing distance if necessary.
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Building a safer community together
Safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone has a role to play in fostering a secure environment. By staying vigilant, reporting incidents and supporting one another, we can collectively reduce risks and promote safety. Men have power to influence cultural change by being allies and advocates for women’s safety.
Let us all work together to create a community where everyone feels safe, respected and supported.
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Further advice to stay safe when out and about
Public place violence or crimes committed by strangers are thankfully rare, however we offer some advice so people are able to take steps to protect themselves or their possessions in everyday life.
Staying Safe – West Midlands Police crime prevention advice for when you are out and about
StreetSafe – A service that allows you to report safety concerns in public places anonymously without giving us your name
Sandwell Safe Spaces Scheme, here to help and support the community of Sandwell
The Sandwell Safe Spaces Scheme provides safe places indoors for anyone who may feel vulnerable, distressed or worried while out and about in Sandwell.
There are currently 82 Safe Space locations across Sandwell, and these can be identified by the 'We are a safe space' logo which should be on display at authorised Safe Space locations.
Staff have been trained and provided with resources to be able to support anyone using the Safe Spaces across Sandwell.
Find out more on the council's website about the Sandwell Safe Spaces Scheme.
View all Safe Space locations across Sandwell.
Cash reward for crime information
Do you know who’s responsible for crime in your area, but do not want to talk to the police?
The Crimestoppers charity pays cash rewards of up to £1,000 if the information you give them leads to an arrest or is of significant use.
Crimestoppers is not the police and nobody will ever know that you have helped them. They will never trace your call or your computer’s IP address.
You can share information on things like those responsible for dumping rubbish, selling fake cigarettes, people suspected of carrying knives, and much more.
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Keeping your home safe in hot weather
Don't let burglars take advantage!
While many people may enjoy the hot summer weather, let's not forget about keeping homes safe.
Criminals will take advantage of open windows and propped open doors, even if it’s the back door.
Keep you and your home safe this summer by following these useful tips:
- Make sure doors and windows are closed and locked. Even if you’re just popping out, lock up and secure your home.
- Consider installing window locks to prevent intruders from easily opening your windows.
- Consider installing a home security system with visible cameras and alarm systems to deter burglars.
- Keep your valuables out of sight. Close blinds or curtains to prevent prying eyes from scouting your belongings. Shutting the blinds will keep your house cooler.
- Consider giving a spare key to a trusted neighbour or invest in a secure key lockbox.
- Hosting family or friends in your garden – don’t invite burglars to the party. Keep your side entrance, back door or garden gate closed/locked.
- Tidying the garage or dusting off the bikes for summer adventures? Lock up and keep that garage door closed. It takes seconds for thieves to spot and take expensive tools/bikes/motor vehicles.
- For extra security keep porch doors locked, wheelie bins away from low fences or garages, and sheds secure.
Find more crime prevention advice on the West Midlands Police website.
Visit the West Midlands Police website for advice on reporting anti-social behaviour and protecting your property.
You can report anti-social behaviour to the police by calling 101 or to the council, visit our anti-social behaviour webpage for more information.
Water safety reminder ⚠️
We want residents to enjoy our parks and open spaces but open water presents serious risks in hot weather. Please follow our water safety rules:
Don’t be tempted to swim in any form of open water, including lakes, pools, ponds, canals and rivers.
Don't allow children to play near water without an adult present. Have a chat with your children about the dangers.
The water may look inviting in the sunshine, but it can be icy cold and very quickly cause severe cramp and hypothermia and lead to a tragedy.
Find out more about water safety.
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HATE CRIME: What is Sandwell doing?
Hate crime is any criminal offence motivated by hostility or prejudice based on someone’s race, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity or disability.
Hate crime remains under reported for various reasons, and we are trying to make sure that victims and witnesses have alternatives ways to report hate when they chose not to report directly to the police.
It is vital that hate crime is reported as it helps protect the community, supports victims and enables authorities to spot patterns and intervene early.
Sandwell has a Hate Crime Third Party Reporting Centre (TPRC) network which is there to support ALL of Sandwell communities.
What is a Third Party Reporting Centre (TPRC)?
A TPRC is a trusted local organisation where victims or witnesses can safely report hate crimes or hate incidents, either with support or anonymously, without needing to go directly to the police. These centres help make reporting more accessible for individuals who may feel unsure, uncomfortable or unable to contact the police themselves.
How do TPRCs help the community:
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Increased accessibility: Many residents feel more comfortable reporting concerns in a familiar venue rather than a police station.
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Early identification and support: TPRCs help highlight emerging issues, improve understanding of local hate incidents, and enable timely safeguarding responses.
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Greater community confidence: Knowing they can report hate crime safely can help communities feel more supported and connected.
Visit our hate crime webpage for more information on what hate crime is, the effects and how to report a hate crime, including our network of centres in the community.
See where Hate Crime TPRCs are across Sandwell.
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 CPS strengthens its approach to hate crime charging decisions
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has updated its legal guidance on hate crime charging decisions to reinforce the importance of timely decision-making where the evidential threshold is met.
This new guidance applies to all types of hate crime.
The aim is to ensure consistent and timely decision-making across the CPS so that where there is sufficient evidence, cases are charged and progressed without unnecessary delay. This is central to maintaining public confidence and ensuring victims see effective action taken in response to hate crime.
Read more about this guidance.
Read about recent hate crime convictions.
 There are 1.08million people in debt to a loan shark in England.
You're not alone. Call 0300 555 2222 or WhatsApp 07700 102773 for free, confidential support
Stop Loan Sharks – The England Illegal Money Lending Team
Stop Loan Sharks investigates and prosecutes illegal money lenders and provides support for borrowers in England. If you have borrowed from a loan shark or are worried about someone else, Stop Loan Sharks is here to help and keep you safe.
Specially trained staff will provide you with emotional and practical support that is tailored to your needs.
Call 24/7 on 0300 555 2222 or Live Chat via Stop Loan Sharks website, this service is available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
You can also WhatsApp on 07700 102773. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, Stop Loan Sharks can provide a BSL interpreter and has a number of BSL resources on YouTube.
Find out more about Stop Loan Sharks.
 Have your say!
Aspire4U CIC is currently delivering a regional research project commissioned by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), focused on understanding the experiences of young people aged 16-24 who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), or at risk of becoming NEET.
The project is exploring:
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Youth mental health and emotional wellbeing.
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Barriers to education, employment and training.
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Access to support services.
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Early intervention opportunities.
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What support is working well, and where gaps still exist.
They are currently gathering insight from young people, parents/carers, professionals and community organisations across the West Midlands to help inform future support, services and regional decision-making.
Contact for further information
Sarah Conley, Senior Operations Coordinator, Aspire4U CIC. Email sarah.conley@aspire4u.co.uk
Useful links
We have more information on where you can find support in Sandwell if you have been the victim of an abuse or crime, whether this is recent or was a long time ago.
Find your nearest Hate Crime Third Party Reporting Centre if you wish to report a hate crime through local organisations rather than to the police directly. Reporting centre staff are trained on dealing with reports of hate crime and can help you get the support that you may need after experiencing or witnessing a hate crime.
Get the latest updates on the policing priorities for your area, from the local inspector. You can visit the West Midlands Police website or get them emailed to you regularly by subscribing for free WMnow email updates.
Register your CCTV and doorbell cameras with today on West Midlands Police CCTV Registry to receive alerts when your footage may help catch criminals operating in your area.
Operation Snap – send the police your footage of careless and dangerous driving, and they'll do the rest.
Find out more about the street racing injunction. Please report incidents to the council online or to the police by calling 101.
Report nuisance caused by off-road motorbikes and other off-road vehicles. People riding illegally face arrest and having their vehicle seized and crushed.
The Just Youth website is the go-to place for children and young people in Sandwell to find something to do, someone to talk to and somewhere to go. Designed with and for young people, the website provides:
- Advice, guidance and signposting on a wide range of topics
- Help to find someone to talk to if they have an issue
- Help to find something to do in their local area
- An opportunity to have their voice heard through a youth forum or group
With the school summer holidays in full swing, you can also check out our Summer of Fun Guide 2026 for Sandwell's children and young people:
Find out more information about the Safer Sandwell Partnership.
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