The UK is currently in a cost-of-living crisis. It’s being fuelled by global economic uncertainties created by situations like the Ukraine War and the ongoing after-effects of the COVID pandemic, and all the side events and consequences stemming from these. Unfortunately, things are likely to get worse before they get better.
So, how will this cost-of-living crisis impact the UK’s crime rates? And what do you, as a business, have to do about it? On this page, we’ll go through a few steps we think you should take to protect yourself.
How the cost-of-living crisis might impact crime rates
The media is awash with all sorts of stories about how the current cost-of-living crisis might affect crime rates.
In general, we’re likely to see certain types of crime increase, contributing to overall crime-rate growth. In particular, the automotive, agricultural, and material production industries are likely to be targeted. This stems from the increasing costs of petrol, electricity and food.
During the lockdowns, cybercrime was – obviously, perhaps – the fastest-growing crime type. It’s easy for these criminals to reach anyone. Those unfamiliar with technology, such as the elderly, are most likely to fall prey to these scams. Phishing and other ‘social engineering’ attacks should be expected to rise out of criminals’ necessity and greed.
Petty theft might increase as less valuable (from a financial point of view) products become difficult to afford for some. For example, basic loaves of bread or medicinal/hygiene products are needed by everyone. If the bank account’s empty because of the extortionate utility bills, people might feel they have no choice. So, is it all doom and gloom? Not at all. With the right commercial security systems and protocols (mixed in with a little common sense), you can avoid the impact as much as possible.
How to protect your business from desperate criminals
In this section, we’ve compiled a few things your business could do to protect itself from increasing crime rates.
It’s essential to watch out for crimes like shoplifting, burglary, and other forms of theft. Secure your premises with alarm systems, CCTV, security lighting, and access systems. You could also install a safe or security grilles. Don’t forget the warning signs, which you could hang or stick all around your property. These make it much more challenging to commit a crime and help protect your business. All commercial enterprises are advised to have this, cost-of-living crisis or not.
From a cost-of-living point of view, the most important thing is to ensure your business doesn’t encourage impulsive crime. You’re more likely to be targeted by a desperate individual than organised crime. Having no obvious CCTV or alarm box is the equivalent of walking away and leaving the door open. It’s just too tempting, especially when everyone’s struggling to some degree. Be sensible and take reasonable precautions, and you should be alright.
It’s also vital to keep the target off your back by giving people no reason to steal. For example, if you own a supermarket, create a partnership with a foodbank or put some items out for free. If people see that you’re making an effort to contribute to the community, it might relieve some of the potential crime coming your way. It won’t solve everything, of course.
Get Grays Locksmiths’ help to secure your business
Grays Locksmiths has been serving Nottingham and the surrounding areas for 35 years and counting. We’ve helped hundreds of businesses secure their premises. If your organisation needs a helping hand, why not contact us? We’re registered with, and accredited by, the Master Locksmith’s Association, and all our staff are friendly, polite, and ready to do all they can to help.
We’ll have a commitment-free chat and advise you on what’s best. To contact us, use the form below. We look forward to hearing from you.