Scrutton Bland welcomes 10 new trainees to Ipswich and Colchester offices

Why it matters: Drug dealing is a wart on the nose of our town. Amongst many other things, it leads to increased crime, the exploitation of vulnerable people, anti-social behaviour and impacts local businesses.

The big picture: Crimestoppers is emphasising that local knowledge is crucial in combating drug-related crime. The charity is encouraging people to be aware of the signs of drug dealing and to report any suspicions anonymously.

If your information leads to an arrest and charge, you'll be rewarded up to £1,000.

Key details:

• Reports can be made via the Crimestoppers website or by calling 0800 555 111

• The charity's UK Contact Centre is open 24/7, 365 days a year

• Young people can visit Fearless.org to learn about the warning signs of drug crime

• Crimestoppers offers rewards of up to £1,000 for information leading to an arrest and charge of drug dealers

Signs of drug dealing may include:

• Unexplained new possessions

• Increased visitors to a property

• Changes in someone's behaviour or mood

• "Cuckooing" - where criminals take over a home as a drug base

• New and frequently changing residents

• Closed curtains and increased rubbish or drug paraphernalia

• Young people going missing or seeming uncomfortable in the area

What they're saying: Phil Breckon, Crimestoppers Eastern Regional Manager, said: "We can all play a part in looking out for and reporting signs of drugs activity in our neighbourhoods across Ipswich. We are asking people to be aware of the signs and appealing to everyone to help protect our communities by telling Crimestoppers anonymously what you know. We'll pass it on for you."

The bottom line: Crimestoppers guarantees 100% anonymity for all reports. In emergencies or for crimes in progress, residents should call 999.

You can find more information at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/news-campaigns/campaigns/help-make-ipswich-safer-from-illegal-drugs