Calling 101
101 is our non-emergency line. Call handlers can be reached on 101 to:
- report minor and non-emergency crimes that are not currently in progress (where immediate or high-priority response is not required),
- or to offer evidence in an investigation.
When you get through to 101, call handlers will ask you for some information about the reason for your call so they can direct you to the relevant team.
During busy periods, you may have to wait for an operator to assist you. If you have access to online services, online reports or live web chat can be used to alleviate waiting times, and your issue will be dealt with in the exact same way if you were to call 101.
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101.
101 can be used to report any non-urgent crimes, and if you need to seek guidance or advice from police about a situation you have witnessed or been involved in.
Issues that you should direct to your local council, and not 101 are:
- waste and litter
- fly tipping
- pests
- noise complaints
- discard syringes or drug paraphernalia
- dangerous buildings or structures
- burst water mains
The environment agency should be contacted for issues of:
- damage / pollution to the natural environment
- poaching, illegal fishing or dead fish / fish gasping for air
- main rivers blocked by a vehicle or fallen tree causing risk of flooding
- flooding from any river, stream, canal, natural spring or the sea
- incidents at Environment Agency-regulated waste sites
- illegal removals from watercourses
- unusual changes in river flow