The Gloucester City Protection Officers (CPOs), funded by Gloucester BID, Gloucester City Council, and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire, have once again delivered a year of visible, proactive and impactful support across the city centre.
Throughout 2025, CPOs played a vital role in keeping Gloucester safe, welcoming and well-managed for businesses, residents and visitors alike. From high-visibility patrols to safeguarding vulnerable individuals, their presence continues to make a measurable difference.
Key Highlights from 2025
Over the course of the year, CPOs carried out:
• 8,273 store visits, strengthening relationships with local businesses and providing reassurance
• 4,823 welfare checks, supporting vulnerable individuals and those in need
• 3,044 engagements with street drinkers, helping to reduce alcohol-related harm
• 1,596 antisocial behaviour (ASB) interventions, tackling issues that affect public confidence
• 1,941 street begging interventions, offering support while managing city centre concerns
• 734 shoplifting incidents addressed, working closely with retailers and partners
• 170 rubbish-related interventions, helping to maintain a clean and welcoming environment
• 43 cards issued, supporting enforcement where necessary
In addition, CPOs attended 876 Police CCTV incidents, providing rapid, on-the-ground support to incidents identified through monitoring; they delivered CPR on 4 occasions and more than 50 first aid incident support for falls and medical episodes.
Financial Safeguarding for Businesses
Through early intervention, deterrence and partnership working, the CPO team helped retrieve an estimated £20,387.28 worth of goods from theft across the year, a direct benefit to Gloucester’s retail and business community.
A Consistent, Visible Presence
Every month in 2025 showed the value of consistent patrols and engagement. Whether responding to seasonal increases in footfall, supporting major events, or addressing recurring issues, CPOs adapted their focus to meet the city’s needs.
Their work goes beyond what is mentioned above. Much of the impact comes from relationship-building, with businesses, partner agencies, and individuals, ensuring that Gloucester remains not just safe, but supportive and inclusive.
Looking Ahead
The continued funding and collaboration between Gloucester BID, Gloucester City Council and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire enables this vital service to operate effectively. As we move into the next year, the CPO team remains committed to proactive patrols, early intervention and partnership working to keep Gloucester thriving.
Thank you to everyone who supports and works alongside the Gloucester City Protection Officers, your city-centre team, making a difference every day.
