Venture security officer recognised with top Hampshire award

A city centre security officer (CCSO) who is helping reduce crime and tackle antisocial behaviour in Winchester has been honoured with a top Hampshire award.

Winchester BID Ranger, Brett Jones, from Venture Security, has received the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Award for Business Crime Prevention. The award recognises the valuable role he is playing in supporting local policing and improving community safer, which includes helping to recover more than £55,000 worth of stolen goods over the last four years.

The awards, now in their second year, focus on the vital contribution made by volunteers, staff and partners from across Hampshire. Winners were announced at a special ceremony held in Winchester and hosted by local TV personality Chris Packham.

The Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) Rangers scheme was introduced in 2018 and forms part of the Winchester Business Crime Reduction Partnership. The scheme was one of the first of its kind in the UK and is recognised as an example of good practice by other town and city centres across the country.

The Rangers provided by Venture Security work closely with Hampshire Constabulary, Winchester City Council and other partner organisations to help reduce low level crime and antisocial behaviour, while providing additional security and first aid support in the city centre.

Paul Howe, MD, Venture Security: “We are incredibly proud of Brett - and of our whole city centre security team - for their tireless efforts in making towns and city centres across the region a safer and more pleasant place to be. Brett continually goes above and beyond, working closely with all partners to deliver a consistent and quality service. He is a real asset to the team.”

Jane Bastock, Business Crime Reduction Manager at Winchester BID said: “This recognition is thoroughly deserved. We are delighted that Brett has been recognised for the fantastic service that he provides for businesses, partner organisations and people in the city centre”.

Donna Jones, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: “Volunteers, partners and dedicated staff make a huge and significant difference to policing and I am so pleased that my awards recognise and pay tribute to all those who make an enormous contribution. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees on the night who dedicate themselves to keeping Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safer for residents, businesses and visitors. I applaud you all for your commitment and outstanding service”.

Venture Security was founded in 2006 and is ranked within the top 1% of UK providers by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The company provides a range of professional security services for customers across Hampshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Dorset and Surrey. This includes providing a similar Ranger service within Salisbury and Andover. Venture was also one of the first companies in both Hampshire and Wiltshire to be accredited under the Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) for city centre security, meaning accredited officers have low level police powers.