“Don’t Get Banned": Showing Zero Tolerance on Shoplifting and Anti-Social Behaviour in Worcester City Centre
‘Don’t Get Banned’ from Worcester city centre – that’s the message from West Mercia Police and partners as they increase efforts to clamp down on shoplifting and antisocial behaviour (ASB).
Worcester city centre team officers were joined by Worcester BID and Worcester City Council as they engaged with retailers this week to send a clear message that thefts from shops and ASB will not be tolerated.
They spoke to stores about reporting incidents and continuing to work collaboratively to tackle such issues around the High Street and surrounding streets as they handed out ‘Don’t Get Banned’ posters spreading the message to members of the public.
‘Be Kind’ posters reminding people to be respectful of retail and venue staff were also handed out to be displayed in premises’ windows too.
The new campaign warns potential offenders that criminal behaviour in one store may lead them to being barred from all stores or even the whole city centre.
Several enforcement tools are available to police and partners to enforce this, ranging from Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) and Community Protection Notices (CPNs) to Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs), and arrest which could ultimately lead to a prison sentence.
The project supports ongoing efforts to maintain Worcester city centre as a safe place for all to work, live and visit.
Since July, the Worcester City team, in partnership with our Community Harm Officer, has made significant progress in tackling ASB through a co-ordinated and proactive approach.
Officers have delivered a range of interventions—including CPWs, CPNs and ASB warning letters to 32 individuals. This focused approach will continue.
In addition, since July, Worcester police have made over 75 arrests within the Home Office defined Worcester City Centre area for offences such as retail theft, drug-related crime, assaults, and public order offences. This figure does not include additional arrests for warrants, prison recalls, breaches of bail, or immigration matters.
Police Sergeant Sarah England, of Worcester city centre team, said: “Working with retailers and our partners at Worcester BID and Worcester City Council we are warning potential and repeat offenders we will not tolerate thefts from shops or ASB.
“Anyone thinking about committing an offence in and around our city centre stores facing being banned from all stores as we build on our work to keep Worcester a safe place to work, live and visit.
“Our message is clear – don’t risk being banned from all shops or even the whole city centre by shoplifting or ASB. We will use all powers available to us to enforce this.”
Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive of Worcester BID, said: “We are committed to creating a safer and more vibrant city centre, and this new initiative is a key step in ensuring that both businesses and shoppers can enjoy a positive experience in Worcester.
“By partnering with West Mercia Police, Worcester City Council, and major retailers, we are sending a clear message that anti-social behaviour and retail crime will not be tolerated.
“The ‘Don’t Get Banned’ campaign, supported by our business intelligence committee, will empower local businesses and strengthen our collective efforts to keep Worcester a welcoming and safe place for all.”
David Lynch, Safer City Manager at Worcester BID, added: “Retail crime and antisocial behaviour can have a devastating impact on local businesses, staff, and customers.
“By joining forces with key partners, we are building a united front against these issues.
“The ‘Don’t Get Banned’ campaign is about taking proactive action, using intelligence-driven strategies, and working collaboratively with retailers to reduce crime and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
“It’s about setting a zero-tolerance tone and making sure those who disrupt the community are held accountable.”
Family-friendly Trick or Treat
This October half-term, the City invites our young trick-or-treaters to come and showcase their spooky costumes while collecting treats from participating businesses in a safe, family-friendly environment.
To take part, simply save the map to your phone and head out with your little ones between October 29th and 31st, 2025!
You can also look for posters in the windows of these venues during this time, as they will indicate which businesses are participating.
**Please note the following terms and conditions: Venues may offer different types of treats. We can not guarantee that treats will be allergen-free.
Worcester BID Transforms Community Space with Youth-Led Art Installation
Worcester BID Transforms Community Space with Youth-Led Art Installation
Worcester Business Improvement District (BID) has unveiled a new community-led art installation at ASDA, following a series of creative workshops delivered across the summer in Warndon and Ronkswood. The initiative, led by Worcester BID, brought together young people to learn new artistic skills and express their vision for a more vibrant city.
The ASDA site, located along a key arterial route into Worcester from Shrub Hill Station, was selected for its visibility and community significance. Previously highlighted as a location experiencing antisocial behaviour, the space has now been transformed into a colourful, engaging installation that reflects the voices and talents of local youth. 
This impactful project was made possible through strong collaboration with local partners, including Worcester City Council, who supported the initiative through a community grant, West Mercia Police, Lightbox, and Worcester Community Trust. Their shared commitment to community cohesion, safety, and youth empowerment has been central to the success of this work.
Sam McCarthy, Chief Executive of Worcester BID, said: “This installation is a powerful example of how creativity can positively transform public spaces. By working closely with the community, particularly young people in Warndon and Ronkswood, we’ve not only nurtured local talent but also reimagined an area that had previously been identified for antisocial behaviour. ASDA and the surrounding route from Shrub Hill Station are key gateways into our city, and we’re proud to support projects that make these spaces feel more vibrant, welcoming and loved.”
Throughout the summer, workshops at Warndon and Ronkswood community hubs focused on engaging young people through art, design, and collaboration. These sessions aimed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster a sense of pride in their local environment.
Catt Standen, Creative Lead for Worcester BID, added:
“Over the summer, it’s been incredible to work with young people in our community hubs, helping them unlock new creative skills and see the power of art in action. Bringing their ideas and energy into the ASDA installation has been truly inspiring. This space was chosen because of its challenges, but what we’ve created together is a celebration of potential and positivity. It’s about showing young people that their voices and creativity can make a real impact where they live.”
The project is part of Worcester BID’s wider commitment to placemaking and community engagement, using art and culture to create safer, more inclusive, and inspiring urban spaces.
To find out more, please contact info@worcesterbid.com
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If you would like to get involved, please email us at info@worcesterbid.com
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