A partnership between local McDonald’s franchisee Angus Fraser and Leicestershire Police has been recognised on the international stage, winning the Global Prize for Problem Solving at the Goldstein International Problem-Solving Awards.
The collaboration focused on reducing crime and improving safety in and around Leicester’s city centre, particularly near McDonald’s restaurants. The initiative introduced a series of targeted environmental and community-focused measures, including increased police foot patrols during busy periods, support from St John Ambulance and Leicester Street Pastors, improved street lighting, and the rollout of the Walk Away campaign.
Picture credit: Leicestershire Police
The Walk Away campaign encourages people to spot when situations may be escalating and take steps to safely remove themselves. McDonald’s helped amplify the message through posters in windows, stickers on takeaway bags, and branded crowd-control barriers.
A designated ‘safe space’ next to the Market Street McDonald’s provided first aid, free refreshments and a refuge for vulnerable individuals. This was delivered in partnership with the Community Safety Partnership, the police, and St John Ambulance. The Market Street and Eastgates restaurants also introduced calming classical music to reduce tension and added menu board reminders about CCTV to enhance customers’ sense of security.
Angus Fraser, who owns and operates six McDonald’s restaurants across Leicestershire, said he was “incredibly proud” of the joint effort. “It is important to me that everyone in Leicester has an enjoyable experience on their nights out and gets back home safe,” he said. “None of this could have been done without all parties working together in creating a safe space for our people.”
Picture credit: Angus Fraser
Chief Inspector Mark Brennan, who represented the force at the awards ceremony, said he was “thrilled” the project was named joint winner alongside an initiative from New Zealand. “Being recognised as international leaders in crime prevention and problem-solving is a fantastic achievement—and a fitting recognition for the dedication, creativity and collaboration of the team and McDonald’s over the past three years,” he added.
More information about the Walk Away campaign is available at: https://wewalkaway.uk/
