Retail NI, Translink, and the Business Crime Partnership are leading efforts to enhance health and safety across Northern Ireland during the busy festive period, working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

The organisations have coordinated measures to reduce risks for staff, customers, and travellers. Retail NI, representing retailers and hospitality operators, promotes vigilance against theft and other crime in high streets, while Translink has implemented enhanced late-night bus and train services to support safe travel. The Business Crime Partnership provides intelligence sharing and collaborative strategies to reduce business-related crime across towns and cities.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson highlighted that the partnership strengthens public safety efforts, including road safety and measures to prevent violence against women and girls. He noted that initiatives like Project Vigilant, part of the wider Operation Season’s Greetings, allow officers to identify predatory behaviour early and intervene to protect vulnerable individuals.

Translink’s Director of Service Operations, Ian Campbell, explained that aligning transport services with policing efforts creates a safer environment for travellers while supporting the local economy and sustainable transport choices. Retail NI’s CEO, Glyn Roberts, emphasised the importance of collaboration to safeguard staff and customers while maintaining an enjoyable festive experience.

Belfast Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly welcomed the combined efforts, noting that collaboration between business, transport, and policing organisations is essential for a secure and welcoming festive season.

Discover how Northern Ireland’s retail, transport, and business sectors are joining forces with the PSNI for its annual Christmas policing operation to raise festive safety standards in the full story.