’Brokers have an important role to play in helping their education clients identify and manage their risks,’ says customer segment director
Ecclesiastical has urged brokers to advise educational clients about precautions they should take ahead of a possible rise in crime over the summer holidays.
In a statement released yesterday (21 June 2023), the insurer warned that schools could be an attractive target for criminals over the coming months.
It reported that when closed for the summer, in the past schools have been subject to vandalism, arson, break-ins, smashed windows, theft of lead from roofs and stolen laptops.
Amid inflation and cost of living pressures, Ecclesiastical said there were worries over a potential large spike in criminal activity this summer.
Faith Kitchen, customer segment director at Ecclesiastical, said: “Schools are far more vulnerable during the summer holidays when school buildings are closed and largely unoccupied, tempting opportunists.
“With high inflation and the cost of living crisis, it is more important than ever that schools take steps to protect their premises from offenders.
“Brokers have an important role to play in helping their education clients identify and manage their risks and we encourage them to engage with schools to help them to take steps to protect themselves from criminals and follow our guidance.”
Measures
The insurer explained that there were a number of measures schools can take to better secure school property and assets, which would “ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection”.
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“Fencing around the perimeter can often offer a good first line of defence against unwanted visitors, while CCTV can act as a visual deterrent for those not wanting to be caught on camera,” Kitchen explained.
Ecclesiastical also highlighted that specialist insurers can offer advice and expertise to help schools manage security risks.
“Insurers can offer a combination of onsite and remote risk management services, including security assessments and advice, alongside broader property protection and building valuation services,” it added.
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