Published: Thursday, 24th May 2018
The Cannock Chase Community Safety Partnership is launching a purse charm initiative in the District, in a bid to aid safer communities.
Purse charms can alert you if someone is trying to steal your purse or wallet. This type of crime, called purse dipping, is most common in busy town centres, shops or public spaces.
These charms are a simple but effective personal security item and are suitable for people of all ages. They have previously helped to cut crime in other parts of the country like Leicester, Sheffield and Manchester.
Simply clip the charm to the zip on your purse or wallet and if someone tries to dip into your handbag the twin bells will jingle to alert you to any potential theft.
These purse charms have been supplied by Cannock Chase’s Community Safety Partnership and are available to residents for free at Council receptions in Cannock and Rugeley. You’ll also find them in selected charity shops in Hednesford, Cannock and Rugeley from 30 May 2018.
Councillor Carl Bennett, Crime and Partnerships Portfolio Leader for Cannock Chase Council said “I am delighted that the Cannock Chase Community Safety Partnership has chosen to fund purse charms for the residents of Cannock Chase. One of the Council’s corporate priorities for 2018-2023 is the improvement of community wellbeing. When related to community safety, this is can be achieved through sustaining safe and secure communities.
“These simple but effective charms will help to deter crime and anti social behavior in our Town Centres. They are available across the District but be quick as stocks are limited.”
Duncan Rollo, Partnerships Manager, Cannock District Policing Team said “We welcome this initiative by Cannock Chase Community Safety Partnership, Staffordshire police have long been advocates of the use of purse bells as a means of alerting potential victims to someone attempting to steal their purse or wallet. They are proven to be effective an a deterrent and we encourage members of the public to take up the offer and protect their belongings.”
L-R: Duncan Rollo, Cllr Carl Bennett, Oliver Greatbatch, Community Safety Officer, Cannock Chase Council