DISTINCTION SAFER BUSINESS ACCREDITATION FOR CANTERBURY DISTRICT WATCH

The bi-yearly assessment was completed by the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships which scrutinised the NABCP-JPEGmanagement of the scheme which operates in the Canterbury local authority district.

Canterbury district watch is a not-for-profit organisation and has a membership of over 140 businesses including operators in both the day and night time economies. The businesses, linked by a network of radios, can communicate direct to council CCTV, police and other members to identify people involved in crime or anti-social behaviour. The membership has contributed to over 40 arrests since September 2016.

The assessment report praised Canterbury District Watch for its overall service, increased involvement of members & partnership work.

The partnership crime manager, Dave Brenchley said “I’m really pleased that the hard work of the team and members has been recognised. Our collective aim is to make Canterbury district a safe place to shop, visit and socialise. We play our part in that, not only for our members but for the wider public as well. We continue to grow year on year and that, combined with an active membership and partnership working, makes Canterbury a more difficult place for criminals to operate.”

Inspector Vicki Tyler, Canterbury police said “Canterbury district watch remain a trusted and integral partner and a vital tool in crime prevention and reduction in the Canterbury area”.

Doug Rattray, Head of Safer Neighbourhoods at Canterbury city council said of the scheme” It significantly helps to ensure a safe and well functioning night time economy as well as supporting the prevention of crime in our commercial hubs”.

Bob Jones from Canterbury BID added that” Canterbury district watch plays a proactive part in supporting Canterbury achieve and retain the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation”
© 2017 National Association of Business Crime Partnerships