Businesses and retailers urged to give feedback on crime concerns

Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson is urging businesses and retailers to give their feedback on crime concerns in Salisbury to help support the development of a Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP).

Working in partnership with Salisbury BID, Wiltshire Police, and local authorities to establish the Salisbury Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP), the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is leading a collaborative initiative designed to support businesses in tackling crime, improve safety, and foster a thriving local economy.

Now in its final stages of development, the Salisbury BCRP will provide a structured framework for businesses to work together with Wiltshire Police, community partners and existing business networks to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in the city of Salisbury and businesses and retailers are being urged to give feedback on their experiences of crime.

PCC Philip Wilkinson said: “Retail crime is not just a business issue, it’s a community issue. It affects livelihoods, safety, and the vibrancy of our town centres. That’s why I’m committed to supporting initiatives like the Salisbury BCRP, which bring together police, businesses, and local authorities to create safer spaces for everyone.

“We need to hear directly from those affected so we can ensure the partnership is fit for purpose and addresses community concerns, and I urge all retailers and business owners to take part in the survey and share their experiences.”

The benefits of the BCRP include:

• Real-time intelligence sharing to help prevent and respond to incidents.
• Access to crime prevention resources and training.
• A unified voice advocating for business needs in policing and community safety.
• Stronger connections with neighbouring businesses, police, and local authorities.
• Support for staff safety and wellbeing.

Dan Collins, Operations Manager at Salisbury BID, added: “Salisbury is not immune to the national rise in retail crime, and we know our businesses are feeling the impact.

“The BCRP is a proactive step to ensure we’re working together to protect our city centre. We’re asking businesses to complete a short survey to help us understand the scale and nature of the problem locally.”

“This feedback is vital to ensure our efforts are focused and effective.”