THE Truro neighbourhood policing team conducted a Safer Business Action Day (SaBA) in the city centre at the end of March.

They were joined by partner agencies including Cornwall Council, Safer Cornwall, Truro City Council, Young People Cornwall, Cornwall Fire and Rescue, Shopwatch, Tradiung Standards and Truro Business Improvement District (BID).

The neighbourhood policing team has been working with local retailers to understand the key negative impacts on their businesses.

Shoplifting and anti-social behaviour (ASB) were identified as two key issues with increased reports of both by retailers. Intelligence gathered from members of the public suggest some Truro residents no longer enjoy spending time in the city centre as a result.

This follows a national trend, with significant growth in shoplifting, organised crime and violence against retail staff. The National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) recently released a retail crime action plan.

During the day of action, plain-clothed officers were deployed in specific city premises to provide guidance and reassurance to shops that have reported frequent and ongoing shoplifting, which has been affecting staff safety.

Officers also carried out high-visibility patrols in the city centre, visiting multiple local businesses to make the acquaintance of staff and discuss any concerns.

CCTV from different businesses was monitored, and businesses were active on Shopwatch radios - the Shopwatch initiative enables retailers to work with partner agencies such as Truro BID and the police to address crime.

ASB officer Steve Lennon joined the Truro Rangers to carry out their usual activities, including patrolling the city centre to provide reassurance to retailers and deter criminals from attempting retail crime.

Participating agencies had stalls in the city centre, and crime prevention officers were available to provide advice and guidance to members of the public.

PC Richie Wilson said the Safer Business Action Day had achieved positive results. “It is hugely beneficial for the police to work alongside partner agencies to tackle local issues, and to understand a how we can best target our resources to make Truro an even safer place to live and work,” he said.

The neighbourhood policing team plans to hold another Safer Business Action Day later in the year.