A brand-new crime prevention tool has been launched to help support businesses in Redditch town centre. 

Designed as a user-friendly mobile application, the Dynamic Incident System for Communities (DISC) allows businesses, which have signed up to the data-sharing agreement, to securely share images of known offenders in the area. 

They can also add witness statements, alert users to any issues including counterfeit notes in circulation, report incidents directly to the police and effectively coordinate responses to security threats. 

The initiative has been driven by Redditch Business Improvement District (BID) in partnership with Kingfisher Redditch and Redditch Borough Council who have funded the launch of the scheme. 

Muj Rahman, manager of Redditch BID, said: "The launch of DISC marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to safeguard businesses in Redditch town centre and we are offering this free to all of our members.

"By working in partnership with key stakeholders, we can improve safety and security in our town and empower businesses to actively deter criminal activity and ensure a secure environment." 

Adrian Field, general manager at Kingfisher Redditch, added: "I have had first-hand experience of DISC whilst working in other areas and it is a really effective system, which the businesses can proactively get involved in and get so much out of, to reduce stock loss and threats to staff which across the UK are a known issue at the moment.

"We are delighted that town centre businesses can benefit from this system and continue to further improve safety and security at no extra cost to them thanks to the BID’s lead on its delivery."

The launch of DISC in the Redditch town centre reaffirms Redditch BID's commitment to supporting businesses.

It is the latest in a suite of projects delivered by the business-led organisation aimed at improving safety and security within the BID boundary. 

There are also fully funded security radios provided to businesses which link through to CCTV and each other and a dedicated roaming store detective.

Portfolio holder for community safety, councillor Monica Stringfellow, said: "The council is proud to have funded this initiative and be working in partnership with the local Business Improvement District (BID).

"Together, we aim to create a safer and more prosperous environment for our traders and community.

"I encourage businesses to sign up, as it has the potential to significantly impact crime reduction and help minimise the losses from theft and other criminal activities."

For more information visit www.redditchbid.co.uk or contact Muj Rahman at bidmanager@redditchbid.co.uk