THE Shirley neighbourhood team is throwing their support behind a new community safety scheme which will see local retailers equipped with two-way radios to help deter crime and improve communication across the area.
The scheme forms part of the wider Solihull Business Crime Reduction Partnership and is designed to strengthen links between businesses, enabling them to share information quickly and allow officers to respond more effectively to incidents.
Sgt Kev Vince from the Shirley neighbourhood team has been working closely alongside partners to launch the initiative which has been funded through a collaboration between Solihull Council, West Midlands Police, the Shirley Ambassador Group, Tandem Property Asset Management and Moorgarth Group.
Sgt Vince said: “The introduction of the radios will allow businesses to communicate in real time, helping to report suspicious activity, alert neighbouring stores, and support a coordinated response to crime and anti-social behaviour.
“By improving communication, the scheme aims to both prevent incidents from escalating and act as a visible deterrent to offenders.
“Our neighbourhood policing team will also benefit from the enhanced flow of information, allowing officers to build a clearer picture of issues affecting the area and respond more swiftly where needed.
“West Midlands Police is committed to working in partnership with local businesses and organisations to keep communities safe. This initiative highlights the importance of collaboration in tackling retail crime and ensuring Shirley remains a safe and welcoming place for businesses, employees and visitors.”
The rollout of the radios is now underway, marking another positive step in strengthening community safety and supporting a connected network of businesses across Shirley.
