The latest research from over-50s property specialists, Regency Living, reveals that the festive period sees a +20% hike in the number of theft-related crimes such as burglary and robbery.
The latest research from over-50s property specialists, Regency Living, reveals that the festive period sees a +20% hike in the number of theft-related crimes such as burglary and robbery.
Regency Living has analysed crime statistics for England & Wales* to see how the number of burglaries and robberies reported over the festive period differs from the rest of the year, based on the number of crimes reported in the month of December compared to the overall monthly average for the rest of the year. It’s important to note that there is limited data for certain police forces due to data availability and system issues (current and historic).
A spike in festive burglaries
A burglary is defined as a crime which involves entering a property without permission to commit a crime, usually theft. The victim does not have to be present at the time of the crime.
The data reveals that in 2023, there was an average of 20,179 burglaries per month in England & Wales.
But in the month of December, the number of burglaries hit 20,990, 4% above the monthly average for the year. This also marks an annual increase of +2.7% in the number of December burglaries compared to 2022.
Festive robberies are soaring
Despite this concerning annual uptick in the number of festive burglaries, it’s nothing compared to the festive hike England & Wales sees in robberies.
Robbery is a crime that involves stealing from someone using force, threats, or intimidation, with the victim present and aware of the crime.
Across 2023, the average number of monthly robberies stood at 6,001. But in December, the total stood at 6,185, which is +3.1% above the overall monthly average.
The total number of robberies in December 2023 totaled 6,185 which marks a staggering +20% increase on the number of robberies recorded in the previous December of 2022 when the total came to 5,154.
6 ways of protecting yourself and your home this Christmas
Take time to lock all windows and doors when going to bed or leaving the home.
If you’re spending time away from home, leave lights and a radio on timer switches so your home appears to be occupied.
Purchase security products like an interactive alarm and video doorbell.
Don't leave Christmas presents on open display to those looking through your windows.
When you’re away, don’t shout about it on social media because criminals will then know your home is empty, especially if you have not turned off location tracking on all social media apps.
If you’re going away for Christmas, arrange for a neighbour or friend to remove any parcels or deliveries from your doorstep because these are a clear sign that the home is empty.
Sales & Marketing Director at Regency Living, Tim Simmons commented:
“It’s not a pleasant thing to think about, but it’s important to acknowledge that theft related crimes, including home burglaries spike during the Christmas period. Criminals know that lots of homes are empty and that they’re likely packed with gifts, some of which are very valuable.
There are a number of ways that you can prevent yourself and your home from falling victim to a crime this Christmas, but it’s no less sad that we have to spend time considering these things, especially those who are living alone, are elderly, or otherwise vulnerable.
Personal and home security is one reason why so many retirees and over-50s are choosing to move to park homes. When you move into a park home, you’re often moving into a ready made community of neighbours who care and look out for each other. You’re getting a home on a site that is often gated and locked, providing a vital layer of security around you and your neighbours. And you’re also going to benefit from onsite security wardens who are there to ensure nobody who shouldn’t be there can access the park. And finally, you’re going to be joining a community of like-minded people of a similar age.
Christmas is no time to be worrying about your safety. It’s a time for sharing in festive spirit.”
Data tables and sources
*Burglary and Robbery stats for England & Wales sourced from UK Crime Stats
How to protect the home at Christmas sourced from Warwickshire County Council, Safe, and Keybury.
