Sheffield 'fourth worst area in Britain for vandalism'

The new data suggests numerous types of vandalism are affecting cities across the UK. In fact, Sheffield is the 4th most vandalised location in Britain. A whopping 53% of Sheffield residents have been affected by car damage, 20% by smashed windows, 33% by theft, 37% by graffiti.

As many as 480 people across Sheffield responded to a survey to speak about the worrying affects of rising levels of vandalism being experienced across the city. Nearly a quarter of people don’t take precautions to protect against vandals with the lack of knowing how to go about it.

In Sheffield, 27% of residents have spent up to £200 on criminal damage repairs, with 17% having spent up to £500 and 3% spending as much as £5,000. These figures shows why trade businesses are often left worried when leaving their site after working hours.

Furthermore, many Brits are currently unaware of a growing crime spree within their area after Freedom of Information (FOI) police data, has revealed the UK reported 2.1 million cases of criminal damage over the last year, with victims personally forking out just shy of £8 billion in repairs.

Although many see graffiti as showing artistic expression, not everybody succeeds in becoming the next Banksy. At an astonishing 37%, it’s Sheffield’s second highest rated issue and punishment for this sort of vandalism can range from three months to a 10-year prison sentence followed by a fine of up to £5,000.

To add reassurance and protection during these tough times ahead, solutions company, Elliott, has provided three top tips to protect your business from vandals.

Security cameras – CCTV makes vandals think twice about causing any sort of damage - increasing security deterrents, through monitoring CCTV coverage more regularly has been a key factor in protecting businesses across the UK.

Secure the perimeter – Providing strong gates and high fences help discourage vandals. Walls or hedges would be recommended to create a boundary, although think twice about using a bed of rocks, as this has been seen to cause further damages to a property.

Storage Containers – It isn’t always simple for workers to remove their tools from the site they are working on, purchasing secure storage containers ensures equipment is safely locked away.

Emily Pavey, National Sales Manager of Elliott commented: “Vandalism is costing people a lot of money as it is often hard to find the offender, leaving the victim to foot the cost.

“The rise of this crime over the past few years is worrying, especially in those places with the highest crime rates recorded and for those people who aren’t taking necessary precautions to protect themselves.

“Taking that extra precaution is key, adding that extra security, workers can sleep safer at night knowing that there will be no unexpected extra costs to deal with.”