Don’t Get Banned from Worcester city centre, police and partners warn

‘Don’t Get Banned’ from Worcester city centre – that’s the message from West Mercia Police and partners as they increase efforts to clamp down on shoplifting and antisocial behaviour (ASB).

Worcester city centre team officers were joined by Worcester BID and Worcester City Council as they engaged with retailers this week to send a clear message that thefts from shops and ASB will not be tolerated.

They spoke to stores about reporting incidents and continuing to work collaboratively to tackle such issues around the High Street and surrounding streets as they handed out ‘Don’t Get Banned’ posters spreading the message to members of the public.

‘Be Kind’ posters reminding people to be respectful of retail and venue staff were also handed out to be displayed in premises’ windows too.               

The new campaign warns potential offenders that criminal behaviour in one store may lead them to being barred from all stores or even the whole city centre.

Several enforcement tools are available to police and partners to enforce this, ranging from Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) and Community Protection Notices (CPNs) to Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs), and arrest which could ultimately lead to a prison sentence.

The project supports ongoing efforts to maintain Worcester city centre as a safe place for all to work, live and visit.

Since July, the Worcester City team, in partnership with our Community Harm Officer, has made significant progress in tackling ASB through a co-ordinated and proactive approach.

Officers have delivered a range of interventions—including CPWs, CPNs and ASB warning letters to 32 individuals. This focused approach will continue.

In addition, since July, Worcester police have made over 75 arrests within the Home Office defined Worcester City Centre area for offences such as retail theft, drug-related crime, assaults, and public order offences. This figure does not include additional arrests for warrants, prison recalls, breaches of bail, or immigration matters.

Police Sergeant Sarah England, of Worcester city centre team, said: “Working with retailers and our partners at Worcester BID and Worcester City Council we are warning potential and repeat offenders we will not tolerate thefts from shops or ASB.

“Anyone thinking about committing an offence in and around our city centre stores facing being banned from all stores as we build on our work to keep Worcester a safe place to work, live and visit.

“Our message is clear – don’t risk being banned from all shops or even the whole city centre by shoplifting or ASB. We will use all powers available to us to enforce this.”

Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive of Worcester BID, said: “We are committed to creating a safer and more vibrant city centre, and this new initiative is a key step in ensuring that both businesses and shoppers can enjoy a positive experience in Worcester.

“By partnering with West Mercia Police, Worcester City Council, and major retailers, we are sending a clear message that anti-social behaviour and retail crime will not be tolerated.

“The 'Don't Get Banned' campaign, supported by our business intelligence committee, will empower local businesses and strengthen our collective efforts to keep Worcester a welcoming and safe place for all.”

David Lynch, Safer City Manager at Worcester BID, added: “Retail crime and antisocial behaviour can have a devastating impact on local businesses, staff, and customers.

“By joining forces with key partners, we are building a united front against these issues.

“The 'Don't Get Banned' campaign is about taking proactive action, using intelligence-driven strategies, and working collaboratively with retailers to reduce crime and ensure a safer environment for everyone.

“It's about setting a zero-tolerance tone and making sure those who disrupt the community are held accountable.”