This in from Police, in their own words. Ed
Police are supporting an internet initiative to prevent and protect shops on the Isle of Wight from the consequences of crime.
A new dedicated Shop Watch website for the Island went online this month www.iwshopwatch.co.uk.
It was created by Island-based company ‘Fresh Start’.
It’s designed to strengthen swifter communications between Shop Watch members, the police and partner agencies.
Empowering retailers
The Shop Watch scheme is about the sharing of information, empowering retailers and their employees to help stop crime, and ultimately reduce the loss of stock.
One of the project’s leaders is Hampshire Constabulary Isle of Wight-based Safer Neighbourhoods team police constable, PC Stuart Ross.
Challenges for shop staff
He said: “Hampshire Constabulary wants to make the most of technology so we can protect the people we serve from those who would cause them harm. We know retail staff are not just up against shoplifters, they can also come face-to-face with organised thieves, caught quickly by police after high-profile crimes against businesses here in recent years.
“Shops are an integral part of the community because of their contribution to the local economy and people’s livelihoods. We’re always grateful to businesses for their co-operation in sending a clear warning to criminals that their activities will never be tolerated on our island.”
Shop Watch website
The Isle of Wight Shop Watch website allows members to exchange information securely online so any suspicious behaviour can be reported, crimes prevented, and criminals identified, arrested and prosecuted.
Visiting businesses on the beat is an important aspect of local visible policing, and police want to maintain an active presence in every neighbourhood by focusing officers in the right places at the right times. Online reporting is another option for shop staff, who can still phone police on 101 when it’s less urgent than an emergency call to 999.
The online service also aims to reinforce trust and confidence between businesses, police and partner agencies in ensuring awareness and understanding about changes in the law and regulations.
