Britain faces the biggest drop in living standards since the ‘50s. Workers are set for the “worst real wage squeeze” amongst all the G7 nations.
The analysis shows that wages are forecast to shrink by 6.2% over the next two years (OECD, 2022).
Consequently, the crime rate may increase because an individual is unable to maintain his or her standard of living as before and could jeopardise progress already made against tackling violent crime (Sadiq Khan, 2022).
This may lead to a potential increase in:
- Internal and external fraud related offences
- Internal Theft
- Burglary, Robbery and Theft
- Making off without payment.
- Theft of and from motor vehicles.
- Theft of fuel, including fraudulent use of fuel cards.
- Youth violence as food and hunger are used to snare young people into gangs.
- Aggression and violence towards staff when individuals are challenged
Key Points
Businesses and organisations should ensure that:
- Current Anti-Crime policies and strategies (Counter Fraud, Security Management) are reviewed and meet the required standards and needs of the organisation.
- Fuel storage is secure (located in a safe location, installation of alarms, security gates or cages, outdoor security lighting, CCTV).
- Vehicles are kept secure when not in use.
- Security of petty cash, cheques and other valuables should be re-assessed in the light of a potential rise in thefts.
- Unauthorised access to food storage and processing areas, (deliveries, restaurants and cafes) are properly controlled and audited.
- Processes are followed regarding food waste and disposal
- All staff should attend Conflict Resolution, security awareness and fraud awareness training.
Action Required
Organisations should urgently review their current Anti-Crime arrangements and are advised to actively report all incidents of crime to their nominated Anti-Crime Specialists and the Police.
For further discussion and support, including fraud awareness training services please Contact Us.