Shopwatch Hereford Launched

ShopWatch – New scheme launched to tackle shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in Hereford City Centre

Shoplifters and those causing anti-social behaviour are being warned about a new shop banning scheme being launched in Hereford city centre this week, called ShopWatch.

Created by the Hereford Business Improvement District (Hereford BID), in partnership with independent and national retailers and West Mercia Police, the scheme allows participating shops to collectively ban offenders under the clear message: “Banned from one, banned from all.”

Ryan Dorn, Project Lead at Hereford BID, said:

“Led by Hereford BID, and working closely with retailers and the Police, ShopWatch sends a clear message that shoplifting and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Hereford city centre.

“Anyone caught can face real consequences, including a one-year ban from participating businesses, alongside any legal action considered appropriate. We want people to ask themselves whether it is really worth it.

“Images of those subject to a ShopWatch ban can also be shared securely amongst participating city centre businesses, helping them to identify offenders and prevent them from entering their premises.”

Sergeant Duncan Reynolds from West Mercia Police added:

“The banning scheme demonstrates a united front and will help protect participating businesses. Alongside action taken by the Police, which may include prosecution where appropriate, we believe ShopWatch provides a powerful additional deterrent to would-be offenders.”

Further details on the full programme can be discussed with Ryan Dorn, Security Lead at Hereford BID

email: ryan.dorn@herefordbid.co.uk

Image caption: (Representatives of Team Hereford from left to right: West Mercia Police, Hereford BID, Maylords, The Children’s Bookshelf, The Entertainer, Sports Direct, Flannels)