The question of what support is available for businesses in Woking to prevent crime is a vital one, especially considering the local crime rate and safety score. While Woking’s safety score stands at a respectable 83 out of 100 – exceeding the UK average of 79 – the crime rate of 74.1 per 1,000 residents is lower than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests there's still room for improvement and proactive measures are key.
Directly available support often comes through Surrey Police and Woking Borough Council. Surrey Police offers business crime reduction advice, which can include assessments of premises, advice on security measures (alarms, CCTV, lighting), and guidance on staff training. They often run targeted operations addressing specific crime types impacting businesses, such as shoplifting or burglaries. Information about these initiatives can usually be found on the Surrey Police website, and direct contact with the local Woking policing team is recommended.
Woking Borough Council may offer grants or funding for security improvements, particularly in areas identified as high-risk. It's worth checking the council's website for current schemes. Furthermore, the council often facilitates community safety partnerships, bringing together local businesses, police, and community groups to address local concerns and develop preventative strategies. These partnerships can be a valuable source of information and support.
Beyond official channels, businesses can actively implement their own crime prevention measures. These include: ensuring adequate lighting around premises, installing and maintaining CCTV systems, controlling access points, and training staff to be vigilant and report suspicious activity. Forming a Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP) with neighbouring businesses can also be beneficial, facilitating information sharing and coordinated action. The relatively lower crime rate compared to the national average suggests that preventative efforts are already having an effect, but continued vigilance and proactive engagement are crucial to maintaining and improving Woking’s safety and security for businesses.