The AlertBox Scheme

The Community Safety Section was approached in 2005 by Alertbox. We examined success stories from other boroughs and were convinced that the scheme would improve security and safety whilst reducing reduce the fear of shoplifting and ASB experienced by local shop traders.

The initiative is a digital network that will link businesses together for greater security. This will be established by an AlertBox network that can be activated to alert other businesses and inform them should there be any suspicious behaviour, potential security threat or risk of personal assault. As well as increasing security, the scheme should help to reduce petty crime such as shoplifting or vandalism, as these acts can be reported to other traders via the AlertBox network who in turn can inform Safer Neighbourhood Teams.

We purchased 450 Alertbox units to deploy across hot spot areas in the Havering community. Our crime analyst identified potential locations and the first pilot was installed in Collier Row in November 2006. Due to the success of this project further installations have been made at Elm Park, Harold Hill, Rainham Village and Cherry Tree Rainham.

There are now 250 Alertboxes installed. Feedback from shop traders has been extremely positive showing many incidents where crime has been prevented and that shop owners feel less isolated and safer. It has also improved community spirit and cohesion with traders to fight crime together.

For more information on Alert Boxes please ring Kevin Jolly on 01708 43 2880.