A survey, conducted by Neighbourhood Watch and SimpliSafe Home Security, has revealed the extent of the public’s concerns about their security.
The survey, which took place from October – November 2023 and collected almost 29,000 responses across England and Wales, shows a majority of people believe crime levels in their area have either increased or remained stable. Only 2% of those polled believe crime has decreased in their area.
The results also show that a home burglary is the second most common crime people worry about, with criminal damage to their property coming in seventh.
Perhaps the most worrying statistic is that 37% of people have been a victim of, or witnessed, a crime in the previous 12 months. Regionally, this was highest in Greater London, the North East, and West Midlands; and lowest in the South West, East of England, and the South East.
Some other findings include:
- 27% of those surveyed lacked a feeling of safety, with 4% of those feeling “very unsafe”
- Antisocial behaviour, burglary, and cybercrime, are the three crimes people are most worried about
- Over half of under 44’s said they had experienced a crime, compared to just over a quarter of over 65’s
- 46% of those who had experienced a crime either didn’t report it to the police, or stopped before completing the report.
- The most common reason for this was the feeling that nothing would be done
Thankfully there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of crime to you or your property. Visual deterrents such as intruder alarm bellboxes, CCTV cameras and security lighting can make your property less appealing to criminals. Good security practices such as locking windows and doors when you go out, or not leaving valuables on show, will also help reduce the likelihood of a break in.
Another worthwhile step is joining a community-based group such as Neighbourhood Watch. With a burglary taking place in the UK approximately every 106 seconds, prevention is a key focus. You can find out how to join, as well as the benefits membership provides, HERE
Should you wish to discuss any aspect of your home or business security with one of our team of experts, or to book in a free, no-obligation survey at your property, get in touch with PFS via our contact form HERE
The full Crime and Community survey can be found HERE