I was recently burgled in the London Borough of Bexley. My home was violated, my sense of safety destroyed — and my case was closed by the police within a day. What has made this even more frustrating is the attitude that followed. I, like many others, have been told variations of: “It’s that time of the year.” “Crime goes up at Christmas.” That is not an explanation — it’s an excuse. If you know its going to happen, why isn't there more being done about it? 

This violation has been deeply personal as well as most of the other burglaries.  They stole my deceased father's jewellery, precious heirlooms passed down from generation to generation. It's not just my story; it's the story of many people in Bexley and the surrounding areas. We feel unsafe in our own homes, facing the threat of unwanted intruders. This is not just about possessions — it's about the sanctity and safety that everyone deserves in their own space.

In communities like ours, the rise in crime should not be accepted as a seasonal inevitability. Behind every statistic is a real person affected by these crimes, and the reaction of the authorities—the ones meant to protect us—has been disheartening. Dismissing these incidents with superficial explanations fails to address the root of the problem, leaving us vulnerable.

There needs to be a systematic overhaul in how burglary cases are handled in Bexley. We need a dedicated police team to specifically handle burglaries, ensuring cases are thoroughly investigated and not just another file to close quickly. Implementing neighbourhood watch programmes, increasing police patrols during high-risk times, and utilising modern technology like CCTV and forensic capabilities can greatly deter potential criminals.

By taking these steps, we can create a safer environment for everyone in our borough. This is not just about deterring crime but restoring the faith and security that citizens expect from their local authority. All is well if I spend money on securing my house but if someone wants to break in, the will. It's the lack of doing anything about it thats disheartening.  

Join me in urging the local authorities and police department in Bexley to take real, actionable steps against this pressing issue. Sign this petition to make our homes safer and support a more proactive approach in dealing with crime in our community.