Whilst crime has been going down over the last decade, the latest report on crime shows an increase in some types of crime.

The latest Crime data has been released by the office of national statistics (ONS). This publication includes data to the end of December. It uses data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) and police reported crime to report on crimes against households, individuals, businesses, society and children.

Headline Crime: The Latest Report

There were 9.6 million incidents of so called ‘headline crime’ in 2024. This is 14% higher than the previous report. Headline crime includes theft, robbery, criminal damage, fraud, computer misuse and violence. From this category, fraud and theft showed the biggest increases.

As previously reported, retail theft continues to increase. Over the previous two years, the amount of theft in retail has broken record after record. And not in a good way. After record breaking reports, you might hope the increase would at least slow down. But this time there was a 20% rise in shop lifting offences. Yet again, we’re seeing the highest figures since reporting began.

There has been further woe in the commercial sector with a 54% increase in robbery of business property.

Police recorded crime doesn’t always line up with the crime survey of England and Wales. For example, this year police report that the number of domestic burglaries has fallen by 6%. However CSEW report that domestic burglaries and other household theft have increased by 8% and 18% respectively.

All reports have limitations and the ONS is clear in explaining the draw backs to each type of data. They suggest that “Police recorded crime does not tend to be a good indicator of general trends in crime. However, it can give more insight into lower-volume, higher-harm offences that are reported to the police, including those that the survey does not cover or capture well.” It also caveats that “The survey [CSEW] excludes crimes against commercial or public sector bodies, tourists, or those living in communal establishments like care homes, student halls of residence and prisons.”

What does it all mean?

While the statistics may seem daunting, they also present an opportunity for proactive measures. Engaging with local community watch programs and staying informed about neighbourhood crime trends can help. Homeowners can join neighbourhood watch schemes whilst business owners can collaborate in business watch schemes. Both can take steps to create a safer environment for the whole community.

For homeowners, the report underscores the importance of securing your home against potential break-ins. Simple measures such as upgrading your locks, installing security cameras, and switching your home alarm on can make a significant difference.

Business owners face similar challenges, with an increased need to safeguard your premises and digital infrastructure. Investing in comprehensive security systems, including alarms and surveillance, can deter physical theft. Regular staff training on recognising phishing attempts and securing sensitive data can mitigate the risk of cyber-attacks.

While the ONS crime report highlights areas of concern, it also empowers individuals and businesses to take actionable steps to protect themselves and their property. By staying informed and implementing effective security strategies, the risk of becoming a statistic can be significantly reduced.

Keybury Fire and Security are a local fire and security specialist. We keep up to date with the latest trends in crime and security. And we protect homes and businesses across the north of England from our base in Keighley. Our team design and install cctv systems, intruder alarm systems and access control systems for domestic and commercial properties. We’re NSI GOLD certified, insurance approved and police compliant.

Schedule a free appointment with one of our skilled designers today. Book online or call 0800 458 7486.