Tackling shoplifting by working together to share information is the main focus of a new scheme being launched in Woking: the Safer Shop Scheme is being launched by the Woking Safer Neighbourhood Team and works with more than 40 retailers.
The first meeting was held in March and the second is on Tuesday, August 20. The scheme uses the Townlink radio system, which is linked to the local team and police CCTV operators as well as retailers and businesses within Woking town centre.
Surrey Police’s Woking Town Centre Police Community Support Officer Oliver Greenaway said: “The idea behind the scheme is to create a community of retail managers so we can discuss ways to combat and tackle shoplifting in the town. This is the first time the Woking Safer Neighbourhood Team has done anything like this and it has been enthusiastically received already. The Townlink system is monitored by the Woking Safer Neighbourhood Team enabling officers to mobilise rapidly and take action. However, it relies on retailers passing on information about suspicious activity or crimes that have occurred. I know that shoplifting is a major concern for retailers and this system allows shops to respond quickly and help police catch the criminals.
“I would encourage retailers who are not yet part of the Safer Shop Scheme to contact a local officer who will be more than happy to explain the system.”
– See more at: http://www.surrey.police.uk/news/news-stories/full-news-story/article/5973/safer-shop-scheme-launched-in-woking#sthash.FeAZhReQ.dpuf
