Facewatch networks businesses using one simple, fast, efficient, online system to report low level crime and share information and CCTV images amongst members and the police. No additional investment in CCTV is required and the system pushes evidence to the police, compelling them to act.
How does it work?
Businesses who join Facewatch are given access to a secure website. If an incident such as a bag theft or shoplifting is committed on their premises they log the details directly onto the system, which are then passed onto police. To support the crime report both moving and still CCTV images are uploaded. A crime reference is generated instantly enabling the victim, where appropriate, to contact their bank and insurance companies immediately.
Members can also share information with other members of the network, alerting one another to potential trouble-makers and criminals, and allowing their staff to act proactively to deter crime.
Who is it for?
Facewatch is for any premises where low-level crime could be committed. Customers range from shops, bars and cafes to hotels, restaurants and even bus stations.
What is the technology behind it?
Facewatch is all based online so users can access the system from anywhere they like.
Users don’t have to download any software – they simply use Facewatch’s unique screen capture software to record still and moving footage from their CCTV cameras and upload it to the website.
Incident report forms are filled out online and, once completed, sent direct to the police to deal with. This direct connection with the police makes Facewatch completely unique in its approach.
What are the benefits to businesses?
It means businesses will be able to provide a safer environment for staff and customers, a strong deterrent to potential criminals, a more efficient way of reporting crime and provide better customer service. In short, Facewatch saves time and money by providing a deterrent and streamlining the process of dealing with low-level crime. There is a statistics area of the system which logs time, date etc of all incidents and can be bespoke to address KPIs of any business or group.
What are the benefits to the public?
If someone had a bag stolen in a premises that is a member of Facewatch, they can report the crime immediately to a member of staff. There they would get a crime reference number straight away and have their credit and debit cards cancelled instantly, without having to go to a police station. Through a unique agreement with Card Protection Plan (CPP) Facewatch members are able to cancel all of their cards for free, via one phone call.
Who set it up and why?
Facewatch was started by the owner of one of London’s busiest and best-known wine bars. When thefts and antisocial behaviour started to tie up his staff’s time and affect his customers he decided to take action and, along with senior members of the police, retail and the hotel trade developed the Facewatch system.
Who is using it?
Current users of Facewatch include Pret A Manger, The National Gallery and 30 premises within the new Victoria Business Improvement District in London including Sainsburys, Punch Taverns,Vision Express and many other High Street names.
Where can I find out more?
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