Malvern officers help to keep the town out of reach of shoplifters

Community watch schemes have been re-introduced to the public this week, and the spotlight falls on the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) in Malvern who are working alongside local businesses to help prevent crime and anti-social behaviour.

As part of the Shop Watch initiative those retailers and shops signed up to the scheme will receive tailored crime alert messages and updates via the Neighbourhood Matters messaging service directly from their local SNT.

Led by PSCO Karen Watson, the Shop Watch for Priory and Malvern Wells sees a Problem-Solving Plan (PSP) set in place. A PSP involves identifying a specific problem, thorough analysis to understand it, the development of a tailored response and an assessment of the effects of the response.

PSCO Watson said: “The PSP in place at a supermarket in Malvern has meant we have been able to clearly identify and understand the root cause of the problem and work closely with local businesses and their security teams to find an effective solution. 

“Since establishing a PSP, there has been a successful flow of communication and fewer incidents occur at this particular store.”

As part of the Local Policing Charter, West Mercia Police will ensure they provide a visible policing presence and help find long-term solutions to local problems. Shop Watch and other watch scheme initiatives encourages a good communication flow with communities as well as visible reassurance.

Other West Mercia Police led community watch schemes which work in a similar way include, Rural Watch, Business Watch, Heritage Watch, Street Watch and Pub Watch.  

To find out more information on each specific scheme head to: Watch Schemes | West Mercia Police 

West Mercia Police are also encouraging anyone who thinks they might benefit from a community watch scheme to get in touch with their local SNT to find out what’s currently set up in their area. You can also email [email protected] for more information. 

Another good way to stay in touch with what’s going on in your community is to sign up to Neighbourhood Matters via our website Neighbourhood Matters | West Mercia Police. 

Issued by EL, Corporate Communications.