Police engagement and business support

As part of the programme, three Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) hosted a three-hour drop-in at M&S, engaging with over 100 members of the public on general crime concerns and providing advice.

In addition, Operation Mooka patrols saw police officers visit and engage with 47 businesses across the town centre. These visits focused on gathering intelligence, checking in with local traders and strengthening communication between businesses and policing teams.

Street Ranger activity and intelligence gathering

Croydon BID Street Rangers were active throughout the week, carrying out patrols, radio training and checks, and engaging directly with Croydon Business Crime Reduction Partnership (CBCP) members.

A key outcome from this work was the identification of shared concerns across local hotels. This has now developed into a wider partnership piece of work, with all hotels brought together alongside police and council partners to explore ongoing support options.

The week also included the first plain clothes deployment for the Street Rangers, carried out in partnership activity alongside M&S and Primark.

Croydon BID also took part in a Home Office engagement day alongside police colleagues, meeting staff and continuing to promote partnership working and local insight sharing.

Business Crime & Safety Forum

The Croydon Business Crime Partnership (CBCP) Crime & Safety Forum took place during the week, bringing together 35 attendees to hear from key speakers, including a Counter Terrorism Protect Officer. The session covered the forthcoming Martyn’s Law, outlining its implications for businesses, alongside an overview of available training and support packages.

Project 4 Youth Empowerment (P4YE) also attended, sharing insight into the day-to-day work of their street engagement teams, who support and engage with young people across the town centre.

The forum provided an update on the proactive work being delivered to tackle crime, while also giving businesses the opportunity to raise concerns directly with partners.

A coordinated approach to town centre safety

The activity delivered during BCRP Awareness Week reflects the ongoing work of the Croydon Business Crime Reduction Partnership (CBCP), bringing together businesses, police, Croydon Council and partners to share intelligence and coordinate preventative action.

Croydon BID will continue to build on the outcomes of the week, strengthening relationships and supporting businesses across the town centre.