About Us
Rural SafeGuard™ is the UK’s first national programme to tackle rural crime. We protect livelihoods, reduce disruption, and strengthen food security by helping rural communities stop crime before it starts.
About Us
Deter, Detect, Delay
Rural Criminals
Rural SafeGuard™ was created by Optimal Risk Group to fill a critical gap. For too long, rural crime responses have been reactive and fragmented. Our programme brings structure, support, and recognition to farmers, estates, and rural businesses.
We deliver audits, training, certification, and post-incident support. Our five-layer model (Secure, Inform, Influence, Assist, Respond)
Together with insurers, councils, retailers, and the police, we are building a trusted national standard for rural resilience.
Our Team Members
Meet Expert Members
Richard
Programme Director
M: +458 (0)87958 35149
T: +78 (0)740 7118 6898
E: richard@optimalrisk.com
Rick Mounfield
Programme Director
M: +44 (0)7850 445867
M: +44 (0)20 7118 8870
E: rick.mounfield@optimalrisk.com
Mike O’Neill
Programme Director
M: +44 (0)7768 354009
T: +44 (0)20 7118 8870
E: mike@optimalrisk.com
Charlie
Programme Director
M: +74 (0)77 50 4414167
M: +94 (0)50 0008 88702
E: charlie@optimalrisk.com
Why was Rural SafeGuard™ created?
Rural crime has grown more organised and more disruptive. Responses have often been fragmented or reactive. Rural SafeGuard™ was created to bring structure, support, and a national standard to crime prevention and rural resilience.
A trained Rural SafeGuard™ auditor reviews key areas such as property access, perimeter security, lighting, equipment storage, worker routines, and incident history. The audit identifies vulnerabilities and provides clear recommendations you can act on immediately.
No. The programme covers risks related to livestock, machinery, trespass, vehicle crime, fuel theft, property access, worker safety, and wider community impacts. It’s a holistic resilience framework.
Once an audit and essential improvements are completed, farms or estates can earn Rural SafeGuard™ Certification. This certification is renewed annually and reflects a strong commitment to rural safety and good practice.
Yes. We collaborate with insurers interested in structured risk reduction and genuine community resilience. Certification and audits help demonstrate commitment to safety and can support insurance conversations.