DOCOs Mike Jones and Stephen Cake were awarded a certificate of commendation at the event for their contribution to the problem-solving initiative. This related to a series of sexual offences in Woking, on the tow path or within a short distance of the Basingstoke Canal.

One of the more serious offences occurred in an area of the canal that was heavily overgrown, dark and felt very unsafe. This was particularly concerning, as this route is commonly used by school children. All the DOCO recommendations for the cutting back of this over growth were agreed, funded and implemented, leading to a much more open area with improved visibility from a nearby main road.

After surveying the canal area with other agencies, Mike and Stephen came up with a number of proposals, including graffiti removal. This was particularly challenging, as it needed to be done by specialist contactors to ensure there was no damage to the waterway, due to chemical run off. This required much work by the DOCOs in researching and finding suitable contractors nationally to bid for the work.

Superintendent Dave Bentley led on the project, which received the national Tilley Problem-Solving Award. Supt Bentley said: “For me, the DOCOs work was fantastic and gave the evidence base and experience to make the changes with partners, which made a huge difference. Their work has led to lasting community change and safety in Woking that can’t be underestimated.”

All in all, the DOCOs made a crucial contribution to the success of the Basingstoke Canal Safer Streets Project, which saw a 43% reduction in overall crime in the area.

Receiving the award, Surrey Police Designing Out Crime Officer Mike Jones said: “It is very rewarding to use our Secured by Design training to work with our colleagues and partners to make a difference to the communities we serve.”

Receiving the award, Surrey Police Designing Out Crime Officer Stephen Cake said: “Receiving the award from our peers is a very good feeling. This was very much a team effort across many partner agencies, which included the volunteers who work on the Basingstoke Canal to maintaining its infrastructure. As an SSSI site it brought challenges that we do not normally encounter, which has broadened our knowledge and understanding. The real winners are those who use the Saturn Way and woodlands around it, they can safely enjoy the area, supported by the Basingstoke Canal volunteers and Canal Watch volunteers.”

Lyn Poole, Secured by Design, said: “I have worked with Mike and Stephen over the last seven years and they are extremely diligent and professional DOCOs.  I am delighted for them in receiving this award, it is very well deserved. Well done to them both for all of their hard work in reducing crime and keeping people safe, both now and for the future.”

Police Designing Out Crime Officers

DOCOs provide specialist crime reduction advice to the public, businesses and colleagues about premises or property security. They also work with building developers, architects, and council planning departments regarding new developments and refurbishments, to 'design out' crimes like burglary and anti-social behaviour (ASB) by providing advice on street lighting, building and street layout, entrances and exits - as well as preferred standards and specifications for doors, windows, and locks, under the Secured by Design initiative. 

DOCOs are able to deliver site specific interventions required to help design out crime in areas that suffer disproportionately from acquisitive crime, based on local crime pattern analysis, police, local authority and community engagement and the collective knowledge and experience of how criminals behave.

DOCOs are specialist problem solvers, working every day to make a positive difference, changing lives for the better and helping people to be safe and secure in their homes.