Kent Police launches Safer Home store at Bluewater
A new interactive ‘Safer Home’ store, complete with modern technology to help prevent and report crime, has recently opened at the Bluewater shopping centre in Kent.
Launched by Kent Police in partnership with Bluewater, the store recreates a home living environment and is staffed by members of Kent Police.
Situated on the upper Thames Walk, it allows shoppers to experience crime prevention technology and safety equipment first-hand, including a touch-screen kiosk with access to interactive crime maps and safety advice.
The store also features a video games station to show how social networking functions in video games work, and how to spot signs of grooming or internet bullying. The console doubles as an entertainment area for children whilst parents and guardians speak to officers, who are present to provide individual support.
In addition, the space offers a private area for discussing sensitive issues on a one-to-one basis.
Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said: “This is a fantastic new facility that will give people the opportunity to learn more about crime prevention, direct access to services, as well as the chance to discuss any issue, no matter how sensitive, with one of my officers.”
Robert Goodman, general manager of Bluewater, added: “The Kent Police Safety Shop, which this new store replaces, enabled thousands of people to receive invaluable advice and support on a wide range of topics for many years.
“The development of our partnership goes from strength to strength with the launch of the Safer Home store, providing a further opportunity to build on the success achieved to date.”
Bluewater’s other community-orientated initiatives have included the recently held fourth annual Learning Shop Awards, which took place on 17 June. In addition, The Learning Shop’s annual Jobs Fayre will retarn to Bluewater in September for the fifth year running. Last year, the event helped over 5,000 people, the majority living in DA postcodes, to find employment.
