Bracknell BID recently held its first Security Forum, bringing together local businesses, Thames Valley Police, and key security partners to discuss how we can work together to keep the Southern and Western Business Areas safe. The event was created to encourage open conversation, share insights on local security challenges, and provide practical advice to help businesses protect their people, premises, and property.
BID Manager Sean Griffin opened the session by introducing the BID team and outlining some of the ongoing projects focused on improving safety and security. These include the funding and installation of new CCTV and ANPR cameras across the business areas, as well as the introduction of DISC – an easy-to-use communication platform where businesses can share updates, view images of offenders, report incidents, and stay alert to potential threats. Businesses can download the DISC app free of charge to keep up to date with local crime trends and submit intelligence.
Sean also shared news from the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC), which has confirmed that Safer Business Action (SaBA) Week 2025 will take place from Monday 10th November. As part of this national initiative to tackle retail crime, anti-social behaviour, and other challenges faced by local businesses, Bracknell BID will be working with Thames Valley Police to carry out business visits in the coming weeks.
Sergeant Robert Lewis from the Thames Valley Police Retail Crime Department provided valuable insight into current issues in Bracknell, drawing on his 27 years of policing experience. He discussed the latest cybercrime and retail crime trends, shared real-life examples, and offered practical guidance on how businesses can strengthen their security and work effectively with the police.
The forum also heard from Andrew Muggeridge of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council CCTV Monitoring Team, who monitor the BID’s CCTV cameras, who gave a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at their 24/7 operations based in Windsor. His team monitors live footage, provides intelligence to the police, and supports court cases with vital evidence. Andrew also shared data from the new BID-installed cameras, highlighting how they’ve already helped identify a range of incidents — from drink driving to welfare concerns — showing the positive impact these projects are having.
The event wrapped up with an engaging group discussion, where attendees shared their experiences, ideas, and suggestions for further improvements. Feedback from the session will help shape future BID projects aimed at enhancing security and building a safer business community for everyone.
Bracknell BID would like to thank Waitrose for kindly hosting the event, along with Thames Valley Police, the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council CCTV Monitoring Team, and all attendees for their time, insights, and support.