Specialist heritage insurer Ecclesiastical's recent research has highlighted a concerning trend of increasing vandalism and crime targeting heritage organisations in the UK. The study, involving 500 decision-makers in the heritage sector, reveals despite a slight 1% decrease from the previous year, an overwhelming majority of heritage organisations (90%) experienced some form of crime in the past 12 months.
Additionally, instances of anti-social behaviour grew by 3%, affecting 32% of organisations, while verbal abuse towards staff and volunteers increased by 4%, affecting 30% of the respondents.
A notable incident occurred in April at Linlithgow Palace in Scotland, where vandals spray-painted graffiti on walls, flagstone floors, and a historic fountain. The study revealed that one-third (32%) of organisations faced graffiti incidents over the past year, marking a 9% rise from the previous year.
More than half (57%) of heritage organisations anticipate a rise in criminal activities in the coming year, with 69% expressing heightened concern about crime than ever before. In response, 95% of these organisations have implemented proactive measures to combat crime. The most common security investments made over the last year included the installation of CCTV (58%), hiring security guards and patrols (47%), and setting up alarms (44%).
The study, however, revealed that heritage organisations are reviewing their crime and security risks less frequently than before, and two-thirds (68%) believe more efforts are needed to prevent crime.
“As the UK’s leading insurer of Grade I listed buildings, we’re passionate about protecting Britain’s heritage. Our research shows heritage organisations are a prime target for criminals and it is concerning to see that graffiti and anti-social behaviour has increased. Brokers play an important role in helping heritage clients understand the risks they are facing and in ensuring they have the right cover in place,” Ecclesiastical customer segment director Faith Kitchen said.
“There are a number of measures heritage organisations can take to better secure property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection. Reviewing perimeter security arrangements, ensuring entry points are well lit and secured can often offer a good first line of defence against unwanted visitors, while CCTV can act as a visual deterrent for those not wanting to be caught on camera,” Kitchen said.
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