Crime prevention support for businesses

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce is stepping up its support for employers as business‑related crime continues to rise across the county.

The Chamber has met with officers from the Rural and Business Crime Division at West Mercia Police to highlight the growing range of free support, guidance, and practical crime‑prevention advice available to local firms.

Rural and business crime officer Graham Donaldson, alongside colleague Paul Gough, outlined the help on offer to small and medium‑sized businesses during a recent meeting with the Chamber team.

Shropshire Chamber chief executive Ruth Ross said business crime had become “a critical priority” for employers across the region.

“Business crime doesn’t just damage balance sheets – it undermines confidence, disrupts livelihoods, and places unnecessary pressure on the people who keep our economy moving. We’re hearing more from members facing everything from cyber attacks and fraud to theft, vandalism, and organised criminal activity. Our role is to make sure they are not facing these threats alone.

“Larger organisations often have dedicated security teams, but many smaller enterprises rely on external support – which is why we’re so keen to signpost the help that’s available.”

Graham works directly with businesses to offer advice, respond to concerns, and strengthen communication between local companies and the police.

He said: “One of the most effective ways to prevent and detect crime is strong communication within communities – whether residential or business – through the sharing of real‑time suspicious behaviour.

"As the single point of contact for business communities across Shropshire, I encourage companies to create local groups using social media or messaging services to share information quickly.”

Ben Simpson, managing director of MyWorkwear in Telford, has already met with Graham to discuss crime affecting businesses in Halesfield.

“Having a direct line of communication with the officers tackling business crime gives us greater awareness of what’s happening locally and how we can respond.  I’d encourage other businesses to connect with him too. When companies share information and maintain open communication with the police, it strengthens the whole community and helps everyone stay one step ahead.”

Ruth Ross said: “We encourage businesses to contact Graham directly to arrange a completely free visit, and to ensure that business crime – however large or small – is reported.

“Some business estates are already setting up WhatsApp groups as a form of neighbourhood watch, which is a brilliant way to build community spirit. Crime prevention is most effective when businesses work together.”

Business crime will also be the focus of the Chamber’s next MP Round Table on April 10, when South Shropshire MP Stuart Anderson meets members at The Feathers Hotel in Ludlow from 2pm to 4pm. Representatives from West Mercia Police will also attend.

Graham Donaldson can be contacted at graham.donaldson@westmercia.police.uk.
For details of the Ludlow event, visit the events page on the Shropshire Chamber website.

Pictured: Shropshire Chamber chief executive Ruth Ross