Safer Streets Scheme Expands Across the UK
More than 500 towns across the United Kingdom have joined the Safer Streets initiative, a government-led effort aimed at enhancing police presence and addressing anti-social behaviour in local communities. The Home Office has highlighted that this scheme is designed to increase the number of police patrols, particularly during peak hours, to create a safer environment for residents and businesses.
Rising Crime Rates and Community Concerns
In recent years, street crime has seen a significant rise, with incidents of theft from individuals doubling between December 2022 and 2024. Shop theft has also increased by 60 per cent, often accompanied by violence and abuse directed at shopkeepers. These alarming trends have left many town centres feeling unsafe and abandoned, prompting urgent action from local authorities and the government.
From July, participating towns will benefit from named, contactable officers who will be stationed in key areas during busy times. This proactive approach aims to prevent anti-social behaviour before it escalates, ensuring that communities feel secure and supported.
Government Response and Commitment
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of high streets and town centres as the heart of communities. She stated:
“Residents and businesses have the right to feel safe in their towns. But the last government left a surge in shop theft, street crime and anti-social behaviour which has left too many town centres feeling abandoned.”
Cooper highlighted the need to address these issues head-on, calling for collaboration between police forces and councils to implement a summer blitz on town centre crime. This initiative sends a clear message to those involved in criminal activities that their actions will no longer go unpunished.
The success of the Safer Streets Mission and Plan for Change is evident in the widespread participation of 500 towns, showcasing a united effort to restore safety and order in local communities.
Supporting Young People and Communities
In addition to increasing police presence, the new scheme also focuses on supporting young people through summer holiday activities in each participating town. This initiative aims to provide positive alternatives to antisocial behaviour while fostering a sense of community among youth.
Several towns in regions such as Humberside, Devon, Cornwall, and beyond are involved, with Sussex playing a significant role. Specific communities in Sussex set to benefit include:
- Eastbourne
- Worthing
- Hastings
- Bexhill
- Uckfield
- Hove
- Lewes
- East Grinstead
- Horsham
- Crawley
- Bognor Regis
- Chichester
- Hailsham
- Burgess Hill
- Haywards Heath
- Rye
- Brighton
- Shoreham-by-Sea
- St Leonards-on-Sea
Industry Support and Collaboration
Anthony Hemmerdinger, Managing Director of Boots, has publicly endorsed the scheme, highlighting its importance in protecting retail staff. He said:
“Retail theft alongside intimidation and abuse of our team members is unacceptable. We welcome this additional support from the Government and the police to strengthen shopworker protection.”
Boots continues to invest in advanced security measures, including state-of-the-art CCTV monitoring and bodycams for store staff. However, Hemmerdinger emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, police forces, and local communities to ensure that high streets remain welcoming and safe spaces.
Emily Spurrell, from the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, echoed similar sentiments, stating that tackling retail crime and anti-social behaviour is essential for the flourishing of town centres. She added:
“As the public’s voice in policing, we have long understood that neighbourhood policing is key to addressing these issues. That’s why we welcomed the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which will see thousands more officers on our streets and introduce specialist training for them to operate effectively within local communities.”
