Sussex PCC Funds Tool Marking Kits to Protect Local Tradespeople

Sussex PCC Funds Tool Marking Kits to Protect Local Tradespeople 

We joined Sussex Police, the Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, and Checkatrade at a tool marking event hosted at the Wickes store in Hove, where more than 150 SelectaDNA forensic marking kits were given away free of charge to local tradespeople. 

Funded by Sussex PCC Katy Bourne, this initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle the growing issue of tool theft - a crime that continues to have a serious impact on tradespeople across the UK. For us at SelectaDNA, the day wasn’t just about distributing kits - it was about connecting with the people directly affected by tool theft. 

We heard first-hand accounts from tradespeople who’ve suffered repeated break-ins, with some losing thousands of pounds’ worth of tools - many of which are essential to their work. Events like this create a rare opportunity for those in the trade to come together, share their experiences, and speak openly about the challenges they face. That sense of community and solidarity is invaluable. 

Each SelectaDNA kit contains a unique synthetic DNA solution combined with thousands of microdots. Once applied, the clear liquid leaves a mark that permanently links tools and equipment to their rightful owner. These markings are logged on a secure, police-accessible database, significantly increasing the chances of recovering stolen items and deterring theft in the first place. 

We know that handing out kits is just the start. We’re committed to making sure that tradespeople feel confident using them. At the event, we supported Steve Gray, a local gas and heating engineer, through the process - helping him register his kit, mark one of his tools, and install his deterrent window stickers. These simple steps make a powerful difference! 

The event also reinforced something we see time and again: partnership is key. No single organisation can tackle tool theft alone. Sussex Police, the PCC’s office, and Checkatrade all played vital roles in making the day a success - not only by supporting the initiative but by listening to the tradespeople who are living with the consequences of this crime every day. 

This event builds on our previous work in Sussex with the Police and Crime Commissioner, including the distribution of 500 kits to farmers earlier this year in partnership with the Rural Crime Team. Whether in rural or urban areas, a joined-up approach is essential to tackling theft effectively. 

Thank you to everyone who came along, shared their stories, and collected a kit. Together, we’re building stronger protection for tools, trades, and communities across the UK. 

Watch the Tool Marking Event with Sussex PCC & Checkatrade Video