Bournemouth Town Watch is a collaborative initiative between local hospitality venues, BCP Council, and Dorset Police, dedicated to improving safety, communication, and awareness within the town’s night-time and day-time economies.

Town Watch works closely with hospitality businesses, Dorset Police, local authorities, and community organisations to create a safer and more responsible environment for residents and visitors.

The primary goal of Town Watch is to enhance safety, reduce crime, and promote best practices within Bournemouth’s hospitality sector. Through partnership, communication, and proactive initiatives, we ensure that venues and public spaces remain safe, welcoming, and well-managed.

Bars, pubs, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality venues operating within Bournemouth can join Town Watch. Security teams, event organisers, and other key stakeholders are also encouraged to participate.

If you own or manage a venue and wish to join Town Watch, please visit our Membership Page or contact us directly for more details on the application process and benefits.

• Access to the Radio Link system for real-time communication with security teams and police.

• Training sessions for staff on handling safety-related incidents.

• Support with crime prevention strategies.

• Inclusion in a trusted network of venues committed to improving safety.

• Regular updates on industry regulations, crime trends, and best practices.

Radio Link is a secure communication system connecting venues, security teams, and Dorset Police, enabling instant reporting of incidents, suspicious behavior, and emergency situations.

Town Watch provides direct communication with local police, supports crime prevention training, promotes responsible venue management, and facilitates data sharing to identify and address safety concerns.

• Safe Space Program: Designated areas where vulnerable individuals can seek assistance.

• Staff Training: Sessions on conflict resolution, first aid, and identifying at-risk individuals.

• Welfare Support: Raising awareness of issues such as drink spiking and anti-social behavior.

• Collaboration with Police: Ongoing partnerships to address crime and disorder proactively.

If you are a Town Watch member, report it immediately through the Radio Link system or to your designated Town Watch contact. For emergencies, always call 999.

Venues can implement clear safety protocols, provide staff training on handling welfare concerns, participate in female safety initiatives, and promote awareness campaigns in partnership with Town Watch.

Members of the public can support Town Watch by:

• Choosing venues that prioritise safety.

• Reporting concerns to venue staff or local authorities.

• Spreading awareness of Town Watch’s mission.

Town Watch primarily works with businesses and local Police, but we welcome community engagement. If you’re interested in supporting safety initiatives, contact us to learn how you can get involved.

For urgent incidents, always call 999. If you need to report a non-emergency safety concern, contact Dorset Police on 101 or inform Town Watch via the Radio Link system.