Commencing on Monday, March 17th, this week-long initiative is designed to spotlight the pivotal role BCRPs play in tackling retail crime and antisocial behaviour. These partnerships unite the business community with police, city council, and other key stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach to crime reduction.
Established in 2014, the Gloucester City Safe Business Crime Reduction Partnership works closely with the Gloucester Business Improvement District (BID), the local council, Gloucestershire Police, and the Gloucestershire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office.
Over 150 businesses in the city centre are currently part of Gloucester City Safe, benefiting from access to DISC, a real-time crime reporting platform. This data-driven tool helps identify offenders early and provides valuable insights, such as hotspot maps and patterns of repeat criminal activity.
In recognition of National BCRP Awareness Week, Gloucester will host a series of activities, including a visit from the CEO of the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships (NABCP). The City Policing Team, Police Cadets, and City Protection Officers will also distribute Business Crime Reduction Partnerships Awareness Week booklets to local businesses.
Dedicated Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Hotspot Patrol Police Officers will be visible in the city centre daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with additional support from the mounted section, providing enhanced visibility and high-profile policing.
The Op Furtum (Retail Crime Operation) initiative will see the City Neighbourhood Policing Team focusing on apprehending and deterring shoplifters around the city centre and Gloucester Quays. This operation, which has previously seen officers engaging with shop staff, security personnel, and the public, proved highly successful and is now set to become a regular fixture in the lead-up to the summer season.
