Kettering ASB Reporting System (KARS)

Welcome to the Kettering Antisocial Behaviour Reporting Scheme (KARS) information page. This initiative is designed to support town centre businesses in effectively addressing and managing antisocial behaviour (ASB) within our community.

What is KARS?

KARS is a secure, member-only information-sharing system that enables businesses in Kettering to report and access information about individuals involved in low-level crime and antisocial behaviour. Utilising the platform, available both as a desktop version and a smartphone app called DISC, members can:

• View galleries of individuals currently excluded from member premises or known for local low-level crime and ASB.
• Report incidents and share intelligence about local subjects.
• Assist in identifying individuals through 'ID-Sought' CCTV images.
• Receive weekly e-newsletters featuring new subjects, security-related news, alerts, and upcoming events.
• Receive urgent emails concerning important security or safety matters.
• Communicate with other members via instant messaging through the app.

KARS is a paid platform, but seeing the need for this locally, we have decided to fund this application for all town centre businesses as Kettering Town Council. The scheme is also thoroughly supported by the police who receive the reports from the platform, as well as the local Community Safety team.

By reporting every incident, you are helping police build up an accurate picture of issues on the ground, so that they can best target resources and address issues more quickly.

Benefits for Businesses

Participating in KARS offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Security: Access to up-to-date information on individuals involved in ASB allows businesses to proactively manage potential issues.
• Improved Communication: Direct communication channels with other businesses and authorities facilitate timely sharing of information and coordinated responses.
• Community Confidence: A collective approach to tackling ASB fosters a safer environment, encouraging increased patronage and community engagement.

How Can I Sign Up?

Kettering Town Council is funding access to KARS for all town centre businesses, providing the service free of charge. To join:

1. Registration: To become a member email info@retailcrime.org to request access. Then click on the registration link provided via email to confirm your details and set your personal password. This process takes just a minute.
2. Access: Once registered, you can access the system via the desktop version or by downloading the 'Littoralis DISC' app from the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android). Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

For assistance with registration or accessing the system, please contact the administrator at info@retailcrime.org or call 01604 629181.

Resources

For further information and support:

• Northamptonshire Business Crime Partnership: Visit www.retailcrime.org for additional resources and guidance.
• Kettering Town Council Announcement: Read the official announcement about KARS here.