The government has today unveiled a £6 million plan to help local shopkeepers tackle crime and vandalism.

The move, which forms part of the Small Retailers Security Scheme, will assist 4,500 shops in some of the most deprived areas in England and Wales.

The drive forms part of a wider scheme to help local shopkeepers tackle crime and vandalism.

Forum Response: USDAW

Bill Connor, general secretary of Usdaw, told ePolitix.com: "A recent survey on retail crime showed a worrying substantial increase in violent crime.

"This extra money is welcome but we want to see a greater emphasis on tackling retail crime. Increasingly shops are being seen as an easy target for criminals and often shopworkers are the victims of these violent crimes.

"With over 316,000 members mainly working in retail, Usdaw is committed to working with employers, local and national government to make shopping a safer and more secure experience for staff and the public".

Forum Response: British Retail Consortium

A spokesman for the British Retail Consortium told ePolitix.com: "The BRC welcome the second year allocation of money for small shopkeepers in deprived areas, as it delivers on the government's commitment of £15 million over three years made available from the Treasury's Capital Modernisation Fund.

"BRC believe that the funding already provided has delivered significant improvements to the quality of life to small retailers in deprived areas.

"Retail is at the heart of any community and there is more work to do to ensure that retailers are able to deliver services to customers in safety and in a manner that enhances local communities.

"One of the key ways forward to is the continued development of Retail Crime Partnerships around the country. These schemes have become key deliverers of crime reductions in our towns and cities and are now an indispensable part of crime and disorder partnerships.

"We welcome the forthcoming visit by Home Office crime reduction minister, John Denham, to the Birmingham Retail Crime Partnership where he will be able to see for himself their significant contribution to crime reduction in the city.

"Hopefully, the minister of state's visit will help improve the government's recognition of their value and the potential for further development of such schemes."

Forum Response: Crime Concern

Dave Sharpe, national programme manager at Crime Concern, told ePolitix.com: "I am delighted that the Home Office is releasing funds to tackle crime and vandalism in and around local shops and hope that some will be set aside for work with young people.

"Prudential 4 Youth, a national programme managed by Crime Concern, recognises the importance of involving local youngsters in community based projects and is supporting Youth Action Groups to tackle issues such as vandalism, graffiti, shop theft and anti-social behaviour.

"We have found that the vast majority of young people care deeply about their environment and want to be included as part of the solution to local problems."