Cash boost to cut business crime

The money will be used to combat business crime

The Stirling-based Scottish Business Crime Centre (SBCC) has been awarded more than £750,000 by the Scottish Government.

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing said the funds would help support the organisation over the next three years.

The SBCC was established in 1996 to help reduce crime against the private sector.

Since 2005 the organisation has seen its membership among the business community grow by 250%.

As a non-profit-making entity, the SBCC provides practical advice to business owners on crime reduction measures and prevention strategies.

When our businesses are the target of criminals, the impact can be felt by the wider community Fergus Ewing Community Safety Minister

Among its initiatives are the Secured by Design programme - which encourages the building industry to adopt crime prevention measures within architectural design.

The organisation also introduced the Best Bar None award scheme which aims to reduce alcohol-related harm, disorder and crime.

Mr Ewing said: "When our businesses are the target of criminals, the impact can be felt by the wider community.

"This funding boost will enable the SBCC to further develop and strengthen its partnership links with the business community and local Community Safety Partnerships, delivering key crime reduction and prevention initiatives."

The centre said it plans to create more initiatives with the money, including encouraging businesses to adopt design features such as secure parking areas with adequate lighting and natural surveillance.

Alan Dobie, executive director of the SBCC, added: "The success of the centre is based on partnership working between the Scottish Government, the police, the business community, local Community Safety Partnerships and other partners.

"This continued support from Scottish Ministers will enable us to further develop our work in Scotland."