The festive season, a time of joy and celebration, also brings an unwelcome surge in theft-related crimes, according to new research from over-50s property specialists Regency Living.
Their analysis of crime statistics for England and Wales reveals that December sees a staggering 20% increase in robberies compared to the same period the previous year, alongside a worrying rise in burglaries.
The data shows that burglaries – a crime where perpetrators enter a property without permission to commit theft – rise significantly during the festive season.
While the monthly average for burglaries in 2023 stood at 20,179, December saw this figure jump to 20,990, marking a 4% rise above the yearly average.
CRIMINAL ADVANTAGE
The annual comparison is equally concerning, with a 2.7% increase in December 2023 burglaries compared to the previous year.
These figures suggest that criminals are taking advantage of the festive period, targeting homes filled with valuable gifts and often left unoccupied as families travel to celebrate.
ROBBERIES SURGE
Even more alarming is the rise in robberies – crimes involving force, threats, or intimidation while victims are present. The monthly average for 2023 was 6,001 robberies, but December recorded 6,185 cases, a 3.1% increase.
Compared to December 2022, however, the figures are stark: robberies soared by 20%, jumping from 5,154 to 6,185 incidents. This sharp rise underscores the heightened risks that individuals face during the holiday season.
Tim Simmons, Sales and Marketing Director at Regency Living, says: “It’s unsettling that theft-related crimes spike at Christmas, targeting homes packed with gifts. This is especially worrying for the elderly or those living alone.”
He highlights the security advantages of park homes for retirees and the over-50s, noting their gated communities, onsite security, and close-knit neighborhoods as vital layers of protection.
He adds: “Christmas should be a time for festive cheer, not fear. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home.”
