Thame’s hotels and Police unite to tackle crime

A new partnership between local businesses and the police has been launched aimed at tackling, disrupting and preventing crime.

Image courtesy of The Children’s Society

The Thame & Wheatley Neighbourhood Policing Team recently met hoteliers from Thame, Wheatley and surrounding villages in order to launch Hotel Watch.

Superintendent Rory Freeman, the Police Area Commander, along with Inspector Mark Harling from the Thame Neighbourhood Policing Team, talked to hotel owners and staff about how Hotel Watch was an opportunity for hotel and leisure industry owners and staff members to receive additional training and support from the Police and Councils, in order to raise awareness of criminality, and offer crime prevention advice.

The initial meeting of Hotel Watch focused on Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE), highlighting the signs and raising awareness of vulnerability and young children who are victims of exploitation.

The important message to all members of the public, as well as hotel owners and staff was simply: “Say something if you see something.

“Help us to protect children and vulnerable people from abuse and exploitation.”

If you are concerned about a young person being exploited, you can call 101. If it is an emergency and a crime is taking place, dial 999.

Any hotel owner or local business that would like more information in relation to Hotel Watch, can contact their Neighbourhood team via 101, or by emailing: ThameWatlingtonChinnorNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk

MORE about new powers to tackle child sexual exploitation in the hotel industry: LINK