Galashiels Shop Watch Launches

A new initiative aimed at supporting local businesses and strengthening community safety has been launched in the town centre.

BID for Galashiels has partnered with Police Scotland to introduce Galashiels Shop Watch – a scheme designed to improve communication between retailers and police, helping to prevent and reduce anti-social behaviour and retail crime.

While the scheme directly supports businesses, its wider benefit is for the whole community. By creating a more joined-up approach to sharing information and responding quickly to concerns, Shop Watch aims to help keep the town centre welcoming, safe and positive for everyone who lives, works and visits here.

The initiative encourages collaboration – businesses looking out for one another, working closely with local officers, and taking proactive steps to protect both staff and customers.

A safe and thriving town centre benefits us all. Shop Watch is another step towards ensuring Galashiels remains a place people feel comfortable spending time in – whether that’s shopping, meeting friends or enjoying everything our town has to offer.

Businesses interested in getting involved can contact BID for Galashiels for more information.