Keeping you safe this Christmas

The shop, located outside Santa’s Grotto is open from 11.30am to 2.30pm until Friday 22 December (closed Saturday 16 and Sunday 17). It has been designed in partnership with the Police, Fire Bridge, Safer Transport Team, Havering Mind, Diabetes UK, Westminster Drug Projects, Neighbourhood Watch and Victim Support. The shop which saw residents flood in during the opening, aims to provide face-to-face safety advice from different partners for all residents.

Mayor of Havering, Councillor Linda Van den Hende, opened the shop doors, with the Police also in attendance.

Councillor Osman Dervish, Cabinet Member for Environment, said:

“Christmas is a magical period but also comes with greater safety risks and it’s our duty to keep residents safe. During this period, as the evenings get darker, it’s important residents know how to keep themselves safe when out and about, but also at home and online. This is why this pop-up shop is so important.”

Tips include:

• Don’t tempt the burglars – We know it’s Christmas but make sure valuables are not in view from the outside.
• This is the period for loads of celebrations and we all enjoy sharing our festive memories, but avoid discussing where you are and if you are alone on social media, especially if you are travelling at night.
• If you are shopping, ensure your valuables are out of sight – the most common item stolen is a mobile phone so put it in your bag if you can’t close your pocket.

Inspector Richard Carter, Partnership Inspector for the East Area Command, said:

“The pop-up shop is an excellent partnership opportunity for Havering Council, it provides a space where the Police and our other partners can come together and give advice on how to keep residents safe and well, especially as the weather gets colder and in the build up to Christmas. If you’re in Mercury Mall please pop in to see us and say hello.”