Businesses owners are being asked to share their views how to improve crime prevention across the county.

Roger Hirst, the Police Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex is seeking opinions through an online survey launched earlier this week.

The feedback will support the work of the Strategic Business Crime Board, that will aim to reduce incidents such as fraud, criminal damage and theft.

Launching the survey, Mr Hirst said “Businesses are a vital part of our communities. By providing goods and services, offering employment and generating wealth, they add life and vibrancy to our communities.

“Helping prevent crime wherever possible, and creating an environment where businesses are free to operate effectively, improves the lives of all of us.

“We are privileged in Essex to have a dynamic and innovative business community. They work well with the police to reduce the risk of crime happening, work together to create safe environments and provide vital intelligence.”

Business crime accounts for between 17 per cent and 20 per cent of all recorded crime in Essex with approximately 24,000 crimes recorded annually.

The largest type of business crime is retail crime, predominately shoplifting, which is 40 per cent of all business crime.

Chief Inspector Terry Balding said “The effect crime can have on business can be detrimental and it has an impact not only on the owners, but also the staff and the community they are a part of.

“We are always working to expand our understanding of crime and how it affects different areas of the community.

“Through partnership working with local business we provide support and advise on preventative measures, as well as helping those who have been a victim of crime.”

Denise Rossiter, Essex Chamber of Commerce chief executive said “Working together we know that businesses and the police can cut business crime by putting in place simple prevention measures and building awareness within the business community.

"Our members are playing their part in supporting our emergency services, helping their staff volunteer as Special Constables and investing thousands of pounds in security.

“We want to know what more we can do together to support businesses and tackle crime, so I would urge all businesses to complete this survey and have their say.”

To complete the Business Crime Survey, visit

https://www.essex.pfcc.police.uk/business-crime-survey-2019/

The Business Crime Survey will close on Sunday, September 22. The survey results will be published on the PFCC’s website at www.essex.pfcc.police.uk