Police and Council bid to reduce off licence crime

Date published: 23 October 2009

Off licences are one of the main targets for robberies across Greater Manchester but the Council and Greater Manchester Police have plans to protect them and other businesses in Rochdale.

Throughout November the council and police will be visiting retail and licensed premises to offer safety advice in a bid to reduce the numbers of commercial robberies and other violent crimes across the borough.

Environmental Health and Crime Reduction Advisors will inform businesses about measures that can be taken to make their premises less vulnerable to crime and how employers can protect staff from injury in the event of a robbery or potentially violent incident.

Rachel Gash, Environmental Health Officer at Rochdale Council said: “A workplace with valuable goods and cash can put employees and its customers at risk of violence or intimidation from criminals who are intent on performing a violent crime. As a result employers are required by law to assess the risks at their premises. This will help find out whether violence is a problem for staff and how by reducing the risk of violence, staff feel safer and better supported.

“This is where we can help. We assist local businesses in putting processes and policies in place to ensure violent crime in the retail sector is minimised.”

For further support and information on reducing work-related violence or to arrange a visit call 01706 924225.