Leicester is a vibrant and thriving city with a rich history, diverse culture, and a strong business sector. From retail stores in the Highcross Shopping Centre to industrial estates and corporate offices, businesses in Leicester contribute significantly to the region’s economy. However, as with any growing city, security concerns are ever-present.
With rising crime rates and increasing threats such as theft, vandalism, and anti-social behaviour, businesses must take proactive steps to protect their assets, employees, and customers. In this article, we will explore Leicester’s crime statistics, why security is essential for businesses, and the key security services available, including manned guarding, mobile patrols, and keyholding.
Leicester Crime Statistics: A Reality Check
Understanding the local crime landscape is crucial for businesses looking to implement effective security measures. According to recent crime data, Leicester has experienced a rise in certain criminal activities, particularly in commercial areas.
- Business-related crime: Crimes such as theft, burglary, and shoplifting continue to be significant concerns for business owners.
- Vandalism and property damage: Many businesses face regular incidents of graffiti, broken windows, and damage to company property.
- Anti-social behaviour: Retail stores, pubs, and shopping centres report increasing incidents of aggressive behaviour, making security a pressing issue.
- Break-ins and robberies: Industrial estates and warehouses have become prime targets for break-ins due to valuable stock and equipment stored overnight.
With these statistics in mind, it’s clear that businesses in Leicester must prioritise security to ensure a safe working environment and avoid financial losses due to crime-related disruptions.
128 crimes per 1,000 people.
Leicester is one of the top 10 most dangerous cities in the UK, with a crime rate of 128 crimes per 1,000 people.
44% higher than the national average
In 2021, the overall crime rate was 112 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 44% higher than the national average.
The most common crimes are violent offences
The most common crimes are violent offences, burglary, and criminal damage/arson.
The Importance of Security for Leicester Businesses
A robust security plan is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Here’s why Leicester businesses must invest in professional security services:
1. Protecting Employees and Customers
2. Preventing Theft and Vandalism
Theft and vandalism are costly problems for businesses. Whether it’s shoplifting in a retail store or equipment theft from a construction site, such incidents can result in financial losses and operational disruptions. Having security measures in place significantly reduces the risk of such occurrences.
3. 24/7 Protection and Rapid Response
Security incidents can occur at any time—whether during business hours or overnight. Businesses with 24/7 security services, including mobile patrols and keyholding, benefit from immediate responses to alarms, ensuring that threats are neutralised quickly.
4. Enhancing Business Reputation
A secure business environment fosters trust among customers and clients. Businesses known for prioritising security attract more visitors and create a positive brand reputation.
5. Compliance with Insurance Requirements
Many insurance providers require businesses to have security measures in place. Failure to meet these requirements may result in higher premiums or difficulties in filing claims in case of an incident.
Essential Security Services for Leicester Businesses
To effectively safeguard their premises, businesses should consider investing in professional security services tailored to their specific needs. Here are three of the most effective security solutions available:
1. Manned Guarding: The Ultimate Physical Deterrent
Manned guarding is one of the most effective security solutions for businesses that require a constant security presence. A professional security guard not only acts as a visual deterrent but also provides immediate intervention in case of security breaches.
Industries that benefit from manned guarding include:
Retail stores and shopping centres
Warehouses and industrial estates
Corporate offices and financial institutions
Construction sites
Hotels and hospitality businesses
2. Mobile Patrols: Flexible and Cost-Effective Security
For businesses that don’t require a permanent security guard on-site, mobile patrols offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative. Security personnel conduct routine patrols at different times, making it difficult for criminals to predict when the site is being monitored.
Key benefits of mobile patrols:
- Deters opportunistic criminals
- Provides businesses with regular security checks
- Offers a rapid response to security alerts
- Covers large areas such as industrial parks and residential communities
Mobile security patrols are particularly useful for businesses with multiple sites or those located in high-risk areas. Their unpredictability ensures maximum coverage and deterrence.
3. Keyholding and Alarm Response: Round-the-Clock Protection
Many businesses opt for professional keyholding services to ensure that trained security personnel respond to alarms instead of business owners or employees. This service ensures that security professionals handle incidents efficiently while minimising risks to staff.
Why keyholding is essential for businesses:
- Guarantees a professional response to alarm activations
- Reduces risks to business owners and employees
- Ensures compliance with insurance requirements
- Provides businesses with peace of mind, knowing their premises are monitored 24/7
Keyholding services are particularly beneficial for businesses that operate outside standard hours or those that require immediate emergency response.
Choosing the Right Security Provider in Leicester
Selecting a reputable security company is essential for businesses looking to protect their assets effectively. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a security provider in Leicester:
Experience and reputation: Look for companies with proven expertise in business security.
Licensed security personnel: Ensure security guards are SIA-licensed and well-trained.
Range of services: Choose a provider that offers a comprehensive range of security solutions, including manned guarding, mobile patrols, and alarm response.
Customer reviews and testimonials: Research feedback from other businesses to gauge the quality of service.
Tailored security plans: Opt for a company that assesses your unique security needs and provides customised solutions.
Conclusion: Securing the Future of Leicester’s Businesses
As Leicester continues to grow, so do the security challenges businesses face. Proactive security measures, such as manned guarding, mobile patrols, and keyholding services, are essential for preventing crime, protecting employees, and ensuring business continuity.
Investing in professional security services not only safeguards assets but also enhances business reputation, improves employee morale, and provides peace of mind. By partnering with a reliable security provider, businesses in Leicester can focus on growth while ensuring their premises remain safe and secure.
If you’re a business owner in Leicester looking to enhance your security strategy, now is the time to take action. Don’t wait until an incident occurs—protect your business today and secure a safer tomorrow.
See how Trust Security Services can help your Leicester business...get in touch.
- 2 The Albany, London Rd, Leicester, LE2 1RH
- +44 7718 080777
- admin@trustsecuritygroup.com
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