Students prime targets for burglary
One in three students is a victim of crime while at university, the Home Office has revealed. It says that students own more expensive items per head than anyone else in the country, with laptops, iPods and televisions accounting for some of the most popular items favoured by burglars.
The research, conducted by Saga Home Insurance, highlights the need for students to be made aware of the risks and potential problems they face if their personal items are not adequately insured. Whilst Saga acknowledges making friends and socialising is perhaps higher on the agenda, it wants to make those leaving home this year aware of the potential risks and the measures that can be taken to help increase security.
Endsleigh, a company that specialises in student insurance, suggests that 'walk-in' crimes where there is no evidence of forced entry or break-in, accounts for one in three claims. This type of theft is more likely from those living in halls or shared accommodation where people get in through security codes or by finding an unsecured door or window.
With a host of other bills facing students when they start university, paying for the cost of covering their items could be seen as a lavish expense – wrongly so, say the insurers. Although companies such as Norwich Union and Lloyds TSB will offer free cover to students whose parents are already policy holders, many do not cover theft from properties left unoccupied during vacation periods: a time when crime against students is at its highest. With more and more students owning highly valuable goods that could cost thousands of pounds to replace, students who fall victim to theft are often disappointed to learn that their parents' home insurance only entitles them to a fraction of the potential payout.
According to the same survey conducted by Saga, theft, criminal damage and burglary account for 70% of crimes against students. With students paying an average of £900 to replace stolen possessions, obtaining cover for less than £100 could be a worthwhile investment.
The findings come at a time when universities are increasingly looking at measures to help tackle campus related crime. Originally set up by the Metropolitan police, CampusWatch involves volunteers from both City and Queen Mary universities patrolling campuses and is a scheme involving students, lecturers and admin staff alike. As an incentive, those taking part will receive free travel on London's underground and bus network and will also develop their leadership and confrontation skills with experienced trainers mentoring them as part of the project.
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