A new survey has revealed that homeowners in the South West are bracing for a surge in burglaries due to the current financial challenges, despite a decrease in such crimes being reported.

The survey, conducted by insurance broker Lycetts, found that 79% of homeowners in the region fear an increase in residential burglaries. However, only 14% are considering reviewing their home contents insurance, and a significant 41% have no plans to enhance their home security measures.

Lycetts' insurance expert, William McCarter, highlighted the importance of adequate insurance in these uncertain times. "Burglars often target small, expensive items like watches and jewellery. It's crucial for homeowners to regularly re-calculate the value of their possessions, rather than just guessing," McCarter advised. He also emphasized the need for professional valuations and detailed inventories for high-value items.

Contrary to the survey's findings, recent data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) shows a 9% reduction in burglaries in the South West in June 2023 compared to the previous year. Avon and Somerset saw the most significant decrease (-19%), with Dorset (-14%) and Wiltshire (-9%) following. Notably, Devon and Cornwall witnessed a 15% increase, and Gloucestershire a 2% rise.

Nationally, there has been a 32% decrease in residential burglaries, compared to pre-pandemic levels. Despite this, McCarter stressed the importance of policy review, particularly during unsettled periods. "It's the policyholder's responsibility to ensure their sums insured are adequate," he added.

Meanwhile, theft arrests in Avon and Somerset have fallen by 38% over the past five years, although the number of theft offences logged only decreased by 20%. Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasized the need for thorough investigations of thefts. "There is no such thing as a minor crime. Every theft must be investigated," Braverman stated.

The police, retailers, and the Government have recently launched the Retail Crime Action Plan to address retail-related crimes, including theft and shoplifting. Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman, council lead for acquisitive crime at the National Police Chiefs' Council, remarked, "We're investing significant resources in preventing serious acquisitive crime. All police forces in England and Wales now attend every home burglary."

Despite the fall in thefts, the charge rates remain low, with only 4.4% of recorded offences leading to a charge or summons nationally, and 4.9% in Avon and Somerset. A Home Office spokesperson reassured, "Our communities are safer, with significant reductions in theft offences and robberies since 2010, and more police officers than ever before in England and Wales."

The mixed picture of fear and actual crime rates highlights the importance of continued vigilance and adequate insurance coverage for homeowners in the South West.