Canterbury District Watch who co-ordinates the Shopwatch & Pubwatch schemes in the District recently conducted a satisfaction survey of its membership. Of the 131 surveys issued, 43 responded which indicates the scheme is getting things right.
The survey asked 15 questions including, satisfaction of radio reception, service & support and quality of intelligence briefings. With a highest score of 5 & lowest of 1, the results averages made for encouraging reading:
Radio reception – 4.16
Service & Support – 4.44
Intelligence Briefing – 4.2
Members were asked if they felt the retail & night time economy areas of the District were safer as a result of the scheme? Overall scores were an returned at 3.9
16 members indicated a need for further training regarding radio usage and access to the briefing website. The feedback enabled 27 follow up contacts to address issues raised in the survey. Those issues included misunderstandings regarding council CCTV, patrolling responsibilities & interest in Board membership. A member from the security industry has since joined the Board of Directors. Canterbury District Watch Ltd has a voluntary Board of Directors & 3 part time staff covering Canterbury, Herne Bay & Whitstable.
Pub member Ian Blackmore commented “It makes my staff feel safer…..I think it (the scheme) is improving all the time. Well done”
Between the Lines manager Arran Dobson said “a good network of businesses with good information sharing”
McDonalds Manager Hanna Porter commented on the quarterly members meetings “these are good sessions to attend and network with other traders. The information discussed is helpful & presented professionally “
Co-ordinator Dave Brenchley said “We wanted to find out what we were doing well & where we can improve. I’m delighted with the feedback overall, particularly our custom care & intelligence briefing results, on which we have worked hard to improve. The survey also enabled us to identify training needs of the members and how we can develop in the future.”
He added “It is essential the business community works together to reduce crime & disorder in the area, and Canterbury District Watch together with our partners ,help them to do so. The scheme has had a number of very positive results recently in tackling criminals and enhancing the members feeling of safety, though a complicated issue, is an aspect we can try to improve”
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