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Duty of Care Officer

Once SWL Security has been instructed to clear a store/area, the Loss Prevention Officers are deployed and monitor the store until the desired results are achived. However, should the store be in an area susceptable to repeat offenders due to merchandise resale value, it is not recomended to walk away from a store with a historically poor reputation. It is with this in mind that we then put in place what is referred to as a Duty of Care Officer.

A duty of care officer's primary role is to allow staff to work in a safe enviroment. The store may be susceptible to crime and disorder due to its location, however the presence of an officer on the shop floor will alleviate some of the concerns the staff may have. Certain stores within the Portsmouth area for instance, have a permanent duty of care officer and over time this has led to a reduced staff turnover which is seen as a further financial saving. This also improves community relations as local people feel more comfortable shopping in a store that demonstrates responsible retailing.

The duty of care officer can be in place for as long as you, the client, feel it necessary, The officer can be removed when either the anxiety felt by the staff has deminished or the current threat has been removed to your satisfaction. We have found that the Duty of Care officer can extend the vital work that the Loss Prevention team has accomplished. This sends a message to the criminal element visiting your stores.