Don Randall MBE, Chairman of the City of London Crime Prevention Association looks ahead to 2026
As is our tradition at this time of year, Don Randall MBE, Chairman of the City of London Crime Prevention Association shares his reflections on the past year and insights into the challenges for 2026.
Regrettably many of the issues I referenced last year have continued throughout 2025 and will remain prevalent in 2026.
Despite global political interventions, international conflicts continue, with local consequential impacts in the form of demonstrations, extremist activities and associated actions.
UK law enforcement is stretched with ever-increasing demands placed on their resources. The dissolution of the Police and Crime Commissioners in 2028 will undoubtedly see a need for some of their roles and responsibilities being subsumed into core policing.
These reforms and demands will continue to increase the absolute need for public/private partnership. This is a well-proven path, but still requires greater understanding and application from all parties.
Here in the City of London, our pioneering examples provide a model to be followed. Our relationship with the City of London Police, the City of London Corporation and the Business Improvement Districts is exemplary. A prime example, under the umbrella of our Association, is the creation of the Prevent Violence against Women and Girls and Domestic Abuse – P-VAWG and DA – consortium (Our Safer City).
Since its inception in November 2023, amongst several other of our initiatives, we have created in excess of 50 Safe Havens in the City of London and 200 across greater London. The Taxi Marshalling scheme at Liverpool Street station, which operates on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, has to date facilitated 35,270 journeys, of which 10,431 were for lone females. Numerous messages of appreciation have been received in support.
Acknowledging that government and other agencies have identified the scale of VAWG and DA, our real-life engagement has shown us the extent and impact on victims, which will continue to inspire us in our preventative and supportive work.
