Cost of living crime on the rise

How cost of living is raising prices and crime

And how CCTV monitoring can help

As the cost of living has continued to climb throughout 2023, the financial strain has led to warnings of a surge in crime rates across the UK. The National Crime Agency predicts a likely increase in high-value burglary, car theft, and robbery as offenders strapped-for-cash seek to make money illegally.

It’s not all bad news though; as experts in remote monitoring, we’re confident our services can help you protect your premises. This blog will delve deeper into these issues and provide you with more details on the benefits of CCTV monitoring, so let’s jump in.

The cost of living impact

With many households feeling the sting of inflation, rising bills, and rocketing food prices, some people are turning to theft to make ends meet. It’s also reported that criminal organisations are using the cost-of-living crisis to take advantage of the most vulnerable in society, and in turn, crime rates are steadily creeping up.

We’ve taken a look at some of the crime trends of this year and how they’re affecting homes and businesses across the UK.

Vehicle offences

According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the number of vehicles stolen in England and Wales increased by almost 25% from 2022 compared to 2021, with that number expected to rise even further when this year’s data is released in 2024.

Another alarming statistic reveals that almost 100,000 thefts of catalytic converters were recorded over the last three years – and as mentioned in a previous blog, this means car dealerships are particularly vulnerable to opportunistic crime.

Whether you’re a car owner or dealer, this troubling rise in theft is driving many to reevaluate their security measures.

Labour materials

It’s not only the price of food and fuel that’s risen over the last couple of years; the cost of building materials has skyrocketed too. Strained supply chains have hiked up the value of tools, metals and equipment which has seen an increasing demand for stolen goods.

It’s estimated that theft and replacements cost the UK construction industry more than £800 million per year. A recent survey indicated there’s a construction site crimewave sweeping the nation, as NFU Mutual reported 9 in 10 tradespeople have been victims of theft.

To prevent your site from being an easy target, CCTV monitoring is a crucial and effective tool in stepping up security.

Home burglaries

According to ONS statistics in March 2023, burglary was up by 4% compared to the year ending March 2022.

Most home burglaries are spur of the moment decisions. As thieves typically take the path of least resistance, it’s important to keep doors, windows and side gates locked to minimise your home’s weak points.

That being said, taking these preventative measures doesn’t completely eliminate the chances of it happening to you. That’s why we recommend taking proactive steps in the event your home becomes a target. Here’s how we can help you do just that…

The solution – CCTV monitoring

We work with CCTV installers who will conduct a thorough site analysis – whether it’s your home, construction site, or business of any kind. This allows them to pinpoint your weakest areas so they can advise a strategic plan of action to install motion sensors and CCTV cameras.

Once you’re set up, we use intelligent remote monitoring services and provide round-the-clock surveillance to keep a watchful eye on your premises. Our highly trained CCTV Control Room Operators are alert and ready to take immediate action on any suspicious activity.

DETECT

We pair advanced detection technology and our team’s in-depth knowledge of your site to identify potential criminal activity.

DETER

We issue audio challenges to warn intruders that they are on private property and must leave immediately. Audio challenges are successful in 95% of cases.

DEFEND

We report all incidents to the police in real time, meaning that they can respond without delay. We also let keyholders know immediately that someone is on their premises.

What our clients are saying…

Mr H, London

“When your family’s security is on the line and you want peace of mind – then look no further than Kerry Jones at PSM. Kerry looks after our home surveillance system and I cannot fault the level of service and due diligence. I would have no issue in recommending her company.”

Worried about rising crime rates due to greater financial pressures?

For peace of mind, discuss your property concerns with our CCTV monitoring experts. Please contact Kerry Jones for advice on how to ramp up security and safeguard your premises against criminal activity.