Canterbury Bid

Canterbury District Watch has received a distinction level pass from its Safer Business Accreditation assessment

Seven people smiling for a photo with an award certificate

Louise Jones (Board member) Eileen Hargreaves (Chairman) Declan Kelly (Board member) Ian Blackmore (Board member) Dave Brenchley (District Watch Manager) Lee Thompson (A/Insp Kent Police) Alan Dann (Kent Police)

The bi yearly assessment is completed by the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships & scrutinises the management of the scheme which operates in the Canterbury Local Authority District. Canterbury District Watch is not for profit organisation & has a membership of over 140 businesses including operators in both the day & night time economies. The businesses, linked by a network of radios can communicate direct to Council CCTV, Police & other members to identify people involved in crime or anti-social behaviour. The membership has contributed to over 40 arrests since September this year.

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

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

Inspector Vicki Tyler from Canterbury Police Station 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 (Canterbury District Watch) 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 BID connected added that” Canterbury District Watch plays a proactive part in supporting Canterbury achieve and retain prestigious purple flag accreditation”

For further information go to website www.canterburydistrictwatch.co.uk
National Association of Business Crime Partnerships www.businesscrime.org.uk

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