Calls have been made for a stronger, more visible police presence in St John’s, Worcester, after figures obtained under a Freedom of Information request revealed the ward recorded 292 shoplifting reports between 2023 and 2025. The appeal, led by the ward councillor, centres on concern that continuing thefts are damaging businesses and eroding community confidence.
Local councillor demands urgent action
Councillor Richard Udall, who represents St John’s, told InfoRadar he receives frequent complaints from residents and shop staff about theft and intimidation. He warned that threats to retail workers and a steady stream of thefts could push staff away from working in shops and ultimately lead to closures.
"Shoplifting is a significant crime and is damaging the community... A visible police presence would act as a deterrent and we need to consider this urgently."
As part of his proposal, Cllr Udall suggested sharing space at St John’s Library to provide a local base for officers. The idea would place officers on site within the neighbourhood they serve rather than operating solely from the main city station.
Police explain current arrangements
West Mercia Police confirmed that the St John's and Bedwardine Safer Neighbourhood Team comprises two neighbourhood constables and two police community support officers. Those officers are based at the police base on Burleigh Road, Dines Green, and responses to retail crime are also supported by the 24/7 Worcester police station.
"We recognise the significant impact that shoplifting can have on businesses, staff and the wider community,"
Inspector Dave Wise said residents and business owners have regular opportunities to engage directly with the neighbourhood team through community events. He also noted that officers from Worcester station are tasked to focus on retail crime.
Data and local impact
Between 2023 and 2025, shoplifting reports across the city varied by ward. St John’s was third highest after the cathedral and two Warndon wards. Local traders say even relatively small but repeated thefts can make running a shop uneconomic and push some to reduce opening hours or close.
- St John's: 292 reported shoplifting incidents (2023–2025)
- Cathedral (city centre): 1,838
- Warndon Parish South: 489
- Warndon: 387
- St Stephen: 1
| Ward | Shoplifting reports (2023–2025) |
|---|---|
| Cathedral | 1,838 |
| Warndon Parish South | 489 |
| Warndon | 387 |
| St John's | 292 |
| St Stephen | 1 |
While West Mercia data point to an overall fall in shoplifting across Worcester between 2024 and 2025, the concentration of offences in certain neighbourhoods has prompted calls for targeted action. The suggestion to use library space as a shared police base is one practical proposal; local councillors and police say discussions about how best to deploy resources are ongoing.
For residents and traders in St John’s, the issue is not only numbers but the lived experience of feeling less safe on the high street. How West Mercia Police responds — whether by relocating officers closer to the ward, increasing patrols, or expanding community engagement — will shape the prospects for local businesses and the public’s sense of security.
