Burglary fears increase for the over 50s

The over 50s in the UK are more concerned than ever about being burgled, according to a new report from specialist insurer RIAS.

The age group shows an amazing 23 per cent increase in the number of people concerned about being burgled – equivalent to an increase of 4.1m people.

The figures will be disappointing to a government whose Home Secretary six months ago, Jacqui Smith, promised to find new, innovative ways of dealing with burglaries. Nevertheless, domestic burglaries have increased from 280,708 in 2007-8 to 284,445 in 2008-9, according to police figures.

Janet Connor, Managing Director of RIAS said: "It is concerning that one in four over 50s are anxious about the threat of being burgled, despite attempts by the Government to reduce people's fear about having their homes invaded by thieves and opportunists."

The over 50s in London are most concerned, with 27 per cent having their fears raised in the last year. Yet Manchester and Nottingham are more at risk, with 35 and 33 burglaries per 1,000 homes in 2008.

Janet Connor added: "Ensuring consumers take basic precautions to protect their homes is more important than ever against the backdrop of these burglary statistics.”

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