Safer Business Week

Safer Business Week

Safer Business Action Week - Working Together to Keep Businesses Safe

This week marked Safer Business Action Week, a national initiative highlighting the importance of police, businesses and local partners working together to tackle crime, reduce harm and create safer environments for staff, customers and the wider community.

As part of the week, Ashford Neighbourhood Teams have been carrying out both high-visibility and plain-clothes patrols across Ashford, including Sevington Retail Park, Ashford Town Centre and McArthurGlen Designer Outlet.

Despite the cold weather, officers spent the day on foot engaging with businesses, staff and members of the public, providing reassurance and taking action where required. During the operation, one individual was identified by officers as being wanted in connection with an ongoing investigation. The male was arrested before any further offences could be committed and was taken into custody for processing. He has since been released on bail with conditions whilst enquiries continue.

Businesses play a vital role in creating safe, thriving and welcoming communities. Safer Business Action Week is an opportunity to strengthen the relationships between businesses, police and partner agencies, recognising that tackling crime is a shared responsibility. By reporting incidents, sharing information and working together, businesses and local agencies can identify problems early, target offenders and help make Ashford a safer place for everyone who lives, works and visits here.

Ashford Neighbourhood Teams remain committed to supporting our local business community and will continue to work closely with retailers, business owners and partners to prevent crime, tackle anti-social behaviour and keep our town safe.

If you witness crime or anti-social behaviour, please report it to Kent Police via our website, by calling 101, or always dial 999 in an emergency.