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rural crimes, rural crime, smash and grab, smash and grab burglary, bank, atm, Smash and grab, ATM theft, Farm Machinery, Farm machinery theft

Rural Crime: Why is it Increasing?

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In a recent BBC show, it has been reported that crimes in rural areas is at a 7-year high – costing the UK economy £50million a year.

One rural crime that has seen an increase in ATM’s (cash point) being torn out by stolen farm machinery. These ‘Smash and Grabs’ of ATM machines have seen businesses and banks become heavily damaged – making banks reluctant to replace stolen ATM’s or reopen their rural branches.

Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire has been one of the hardest-hit rural communities in the UK for smash and grabs on ATM machines, with the village seeing two of it’s ATM’s be ripped out by stolen farm machinery and never replaced.

In Britain, there were 1,000 smash and grabs involving cash points in 2018, with half happening in the countryside.  Rural communities such as Great Shelford rely on physical cash transactions rather than using card and these attacks on ATM’s have seen local shops see fewer customers and many businesses having to compensate with having to pay bank charges for card transactions.

But why are ATM raids on the rise?

Although there is a higher risk with stealing heavy farm machinery and tearing out ATM’s out of banks, there is a higher reward with some ATM’s storing up to £100,000 in cash. Many rural ATM’s will have larger sums of cash compared to ones in the city because they are refilled less often.

Another reason why ATM raids are on the rise is that police response times are double what they are in towns or cities, allowing criminals more time to steal an ATM machine.

To some, smash and grabs on ATM’s may look opportunistic but they are very sophisticated crimes. With criminals researching, looking for farms close by and looking for heavy machinery big enough to rip out ATM’s.

As mentioned before farm machinery are often used for smash and grabs and stolen farm machinery is on the rise. Last year, farm machinery thefts cost farmers nearly £7.5million with many having to pay to replace them.

Although the police are taking measures and are working with local farmers to ensure that they are taking precautions to prevent the theft of vehicles. However, due to their nature farmers can’t close gates to their farms as they operate 24hrs.

Police in Norfolk have seen trends in these smash and grab crimes with Telehandlers being used to rip out ATM’s from banks and many of the crimes being committed by people living in rural communities and have experience operating farm machinery.

So, what measures can you take to prevent the theft of farm machinery?

  • Remove keys from vehicles if they are not in use: Although farms operate 24/7 it is important that any farm machinery that is not in use has its keys removed and is securely looked up day or night.
  • CCTV: Although it is a basic security measure having CCTV cameras located in areas where machinery is kept can provide a better visual on them and can be monitored 24/7. If machinery is stolen, the CCTV footage can be used to find out who the perpetrator is and use it for evidence in a court of law.
  • Security Lighting: Having security lighting in conjunction with CCTV is a very good security combo. Having security lighting that are censored can be an effective deterrent to criminals as if they attempt to approach your farm or vehicle, they will light up the trespasser making them feel caught.

If your farm or business is in need of extra security services, then get in touch with A&R Security Services. We can provide comprehensive security solutions to businesses across South Wales and the South West. To find out more call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details.

A&R Security Services, Security Services, Security, Knife Crimes, Knife Crime, Serious Knife Crime, Serious Crime, Newport, Cardiff, Swansea, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Blackpool

Knife Crime- Fastest rising crime in the UK

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In recent news, it’s been reported that in the last 10 years knife crime has increased dramatically – with London and the boroughs surrounding the city having the highest crime rates.

However, data from 34 out of 43 police forces shows the rate of serious knife crime rising dramatically in areas outside of London in city boroughs like Manchester, Slough, Liverpool and Blackpool.

“We are suffering just as much as anywhere else,” said Byron Highton whose brother was fatally stabbed with a sword and an axe while he walked home in Preston, in 2014. “the whole country is suffering from knife crime, but small cities in the north like Preston get no mention”

The BBC asked all 43 regional police forces in England and Wales for detail about serious knife crimes in their area.

In Lancashire, figures showed that knife crime doubled in the past five years, rising from 455 offences in 2014 to 981 in 2018.

In recent years Manchester, Liverpool, Slough and Nottingham are all in the top 25 most dangerous places in England and Wales for serious knife crimes. The safest areas with less than one crime per 10,000 people include Dorset, the Cotswolds, Monmouthshire and the Malvern.

Although, Scotland police collect crime statistic differently so there are no separate records for knife attacks. However, knife possession has increased in recent years with more than 2,300 crimes reported last year.

Although men are usually the target for serious knife crimes, in Blackpool students Keeley 17 and Lauren 18 were both threated on an estate where they live with knives over not allowing a group of lads to play on their half of the pitch while both Keeley and Lauren played football.

In 2018, Blackpool had 14.3 serious knife crime offences per 10,000 people putting it in the top 25 most dangerous places in England and Wales for knife crime, of the 275 areas which gave data.

Drugs, gangs, school exclusion and expulsion rates, unemployment and cuts to services have all been blamed for the rise in youth violence in areas such a Blackpool and Preston. Last month, official figures showed that 8 out of 10 most deprived areas in England alone were in Blackpool.

In 2018, almost half of all suspects of serious knife crimes in England and Wales were aged 24 and under.

So, what does this mean for Cardiff and Wales as a whole?

Although Cardiff is relatively small compared to Manchester and London, it still has its fair share of serious knife crimes.

In July 2019 WalesOnline reported on how one of Wales’ largest hospitals University Hospital of Wales (Heath hospital) described that they were dealing with stabbings on a weekly basis.

The number of offences involving knife crimes has gone up more than 80% across Wales in the past decade. Police have said that teenagers as young as 15 are carrying knives.  Across Wales, in 2011 there were 741 incidents involving knives compared to 1,353 in 2018 – an increase of 83%.

Assistant Chief Constable Jackie Sebire, the national leader in tackling serious violent crime at the National Police Chief’s Council, blamed police funding cuts for the fall in charge rates.

“The large reduction in police funding since 2010 has meant that fewer detectives with less time and a bigger workload taking on long investigations, meaning it can be more difficult to get a charge”

“Some forces who have been given additional funding to tackle violence are using that to improve forensic capabilities, so even when the victim is unwilling to proceed, police can still progress a case.”

A spokesperson from the Home Office responded: “ We are taking action to tackle the violent crime which has such a devastating impact on our communities…. This includes supporting the police by recruiting 20,000 new police officers over the next three years, making it easier for them to use stop and search powers and investing £10m in additional funding to allow forces to increase the number of officers carrying Tasers.”

To read the full BBC article click here

A&R Security Services provides comprehensive security solutions to businesses in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend, South Wales and the South West. If you are in need of concierge services, mobile patrols or secure keyholding services then visit our website or call us on 01656 713950

 

 

 

Old castle, Old Castle Primary School, Key Holding, Key Holding Services, Secure Key Holding, Security Services, Bridgend

Case Study: Old Castle Primary School

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With recent budget cuts to the education sector many schools in South Wales and the UK are feeling the squeeze – with funding for teachers, extracurricular activities being cut. So, schools have had to come up with ingenious ways for generating extra funding for themselves.

Many schools offer after school clubs for families who can’t get childcare for after school or offer their school as a venue space for local organisations and groups.
One school in particular who has felt the recent squeeze is Old Castle Primary School. Old Castle Primary school has the capacity to hold large parties, classes and even meetings within their classrooms. One organisation that regularly uses their main hall is a local choir group based in Bridgend.

At the time Old Castle Primary schools’ caretaker would lock the school every Thursday after choir practise had finished – ensuring that no one else would be able to access the school. However, the caretaker was no longer able to lock up the school – meaning that Old Castle Primary could have potentially lost their way of generating extra income.

A&R were already providing cleaning services during out of hours and when it was announced that the caretaker could no longer secure the school after the local choir’s choir practise – that is when A&R Security Services stepped in. A&R Security services were able to employ a secure key holder to ensure that every Thursday after choir practise, the schools security system was armed and that all doors and windows were secured before leaving the building.

Having secure key holding allows Old Castle Primary School to continue offering their school as a venue for local organisations and groups in and around the area of Bridgend. Alongside securing the school after hours, any alarm alerts are quickly responded too and logged by our secure key holder – giving them peace of mind that their school is in safe hands.

To find out more about our secure key holding services visit our website or call 01656 713950

Rugby World Cup, Rugby World Cup 2019, A&R Security Services, Japan rugby World Cup, Japan, Tourism, Tourist, Rugby

Rugby World Cup: How to stay safe in Japan

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This year Japan plays host to the 2019 Rugby World Cup, seeing countries from both northern and southern hemispheres battling out to win the rugby world cup trophy.

Although Japan has been voted and reported as one of the safest countries in the world to visit, it is still important to remain vigilant.

So, what should you do to keep yourself safe?

Keep your belongings with you at all times

Although Japan is one of the safest countries in the world in terms of criminal activity, there are still pickpocketers. If you are in crowded places such as public transport or moving around a stadium, pickpocketers will see this as an easy opportunity to steal mobile phones, wallets and purses. To ensure that you aren’t targeted by pickpocketers ensure that your mobile phone or wallet is in the front pocket of your trousers and your hand is on top of it. If you have a backpack or handbag, make sure that it is in front of you and you have your hand on the zip or clasp – ensuring that no one can open your bag and reach in.

Scams

It’s important to avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you in any public areas. In neighbourhoods of Roppongi and Kabuki-Cho in Tokyo, there are known reports of fraudulent credit card charges. To avoid charges don’t allow waiters or vendors to make any transactions with your credit card on their own as they can copy information. Keep an eye on your credit card all the time, especially when paying at restaurants, shops and especially in bars.

Watch your drink

Although you are least likely to get kidnapped or mugged, there is that potential risk that someone will try to harm you while visiting a bar or club. If you are visiting a local bar or club or buying a drink at a stadium, ensure that your drink is covered and with you at all times so that it is not spiked. If you are leaving to use the toilet – make sure that your group keep an eye on your drink at all times. If you are getting a new drink, make sure that to watch the bartender – if you see any suspicious activity with your drink leave it and report it to security or other bar staff. Also, if a stranger offers you a drink, kindly decline.

Sexual Harassment

When travelling on public transport between towns and cities during rush hour, there have been noted incidents of men groping women on trains (however, they usually target local women) If you feel that you are being harassed, move to another part of the train or bus. If you still feel unsafe – alight at a station and report it to local authorities.  If you witness any sexual harassment do not ignore it. Report it!

Terrorism

Japan has the lowest risk of terrorism in the world, but it is still important to remain vigilant. If you see any unattended bags in suspicious areas within a stadium, neighbourhood or on public transport move away from it and report it to security or local authorities.

Here are some other tips to keep yourself safe when visiting japan.

  • Ensure your card details are covered –  when taking money out an international ATM it is important your card PIN details are covered so that they aren’t stolen to perform fraudulent charges.
  • If you’re lost ask for directions – if you are unsure of where you are or lost ask either the local police or shop owners for directions. Even though smartphones and tablets are great for downloading map directions, if these get stolen you might want to keep a physical copy of directions to places of safety.
  • Stay up-to-date – When walking around and visiting cities between matches it is important to know what is going on. If you are in a city it’s important to know if any rallies or large events are going on.
  • Take a portable charger – if you’re walking around Japans many attractions or watching a rugby match, it is advisable to take a portable charger with you to avoid having a flat phone battery and being uncontactable if you get separated from your friends.

A&R Security Services has over 40 years of experience in providing professional security solutions in Cardiff. We are professional in what we do and provide SIA trained guards and have a customer-orientated approach to each client. If you would like to find out more about our security solution get in touch with us on 01656 713950 or visit our website for more details.

Industrial Security, Industrial Security Services, Warehouse Security Services, Warehouse Security, A&R Security Services, Security Services

Industrial security: What is it? And how can it help you?

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Owning an industrial business in Newport comes with the responsibility of ensuring that everyone who works for you and what is inside your premises always remains safe and secure.

Whether it’s a factory or warehouse on one site or spread over numerous locations in Newport, industrial security is essential if you want your company to succeed.

Recent statistics show that the UK manufacturing industry contributes £6.7 trillion to the economy. However, with that being said, it is vital to look at security options that are effective at deterring thieves, vandals and keeping your industrial business safe.

So, what exactly is industrial security and how can it help you and your industrial business?

Manned Security Guards

Security guards provide a physical presence to prevent trespassers from setting foot on your premises. Manned security guards aren’t just an effective way to spot potential trespassers, they can deter them as well.

Manned security guards can be placed and prevent people from accessing entrances to your industrial unit and can keep watch of anyone who looks suspicious. ID passes can be checked, and inspections of bags and coats can be checked as employees leave the building after business hours.

 

Mobile Security patrols

Just like manned guards – mobile security patrols can be a physical presence to deter potential criminals from your industrial business. Mobile Security patrols are a highly effective form of industrial security, especially if you own warehouses, factories or gatehouses entrances over a number of locations.

 

CCTV Monitoring

CCTV is a widely used and popular form of security. CCTV can be remotely monitored from a central location and can be used in numerous points across different locations. Cameras can be placed in hard to reach areas, as well as near entrances and exits to monitor who is entering and exiting your business.

Also, if any legal action is taken either against you or to prove someone has attempted to carry out a crime on your property, CCTV can be used as evidence.

 

Inspections

Carrying out frequent inspections, both planned and unplanned will provide extra peace of mind knowing that your assets (stock and equipment) is secure at the end of the day.

Carrying out regular car inspections are also useful especially when checking if any vehicles have been broken into and any potential congestions coming in and out of our industrial business is kept to a minimum

 

Alarm installation

Intruder alarms are another popular and regularly used security feature and can alert that there is an intruder at your business – allowing security staff to respond quickly and deter criminals.

When installing an alarm system, it important to find one that will be suitable for your industrial business’ layout. Also, if you have one professionally installed – ensure that it is regularly serviced to prevent false alarms.

 

Security lighting

Security lights can provide that added security, especially during the winter month when daylight is limited and when most criminals operate. Security lighting can be effective when criminals get close to access points – triggering motion sensors and surprising them.

However, when installing security lighting – make sure that controls and wiring are hidden underground or behind large obstacles and lights are installed out of reach.

 

Update PINS and Passwords

No matter the number of employees you have, regularly updating your PINs and passwords regularly will decrease the chances of someone guessing correctly and ruining your business by stealing valuable assets.

If your industrial business as a lot of technology such as tablets, laptops and computers then it is very important to regularly update passwords to reduce the risk of hacking or cyber threats.

 

A&R Security Services provides industrial security solutions to businesses in Newport and South Wales. To find out how our SIA licensed security teams can deliver a service you can trust then call us today on 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details.

Alarm System, intruder alarm, false alarm, false alarms, Security Services, A&R Security Services

Alarm systems: How to avoid false alarms

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Intruder alarms are a great way of alerting that someone is trespassing on your business. However, if your business is equipped with an intruder alarm, there is a chance that you will experience a false alarm.

False alarms are a lot more than just a nuisance-they can put a strain on emergency services and could potentially incur costly fees.

So, what are the causes of a false alarm?

User error

It’s estimated that 70% of false alarms are caused by user error. This is both a good and bad thing. On the positive, this means that 70% of false alarms can be eliminated and quickly dealt with – with proper training. On the downside, it indicates that employees aren’t properly trained when it comes to the intruder alarm.

To reduce the number of user errors and false alarms, it’s important that staff are properly trained (especially those who are earliest and the last to leave) and are informed of the most up to date passcodes, as well as showing them how to unlock and lock your business properly, arm and disarm the alarm and silence any false alarms.

Motion detectors

Motion detectors are a great way to ensure that you have no unwelcome guests walking around inside your business. However, sensors now are incredibly sensitive to the slightest of movement – which can cause issues.

People aren’t the only things that move. Falling objects (unbalanced paper, umbrellas, coats, etc), object such as blinds or balloons moving in a breeze and even large insects have been known to set off motion detectors.

To minimise the chance to false motion detection, you should ensure that your office is clean and tidy if anything that could potentially activate the sensor before leaving. Moving objects from air conditioning and remove any insects as soon as possible.

Unsecured doors and windows

Most alarm systems will be connected to sensored doors and windows. If one or of these doors or windows is poorly fitted, a false alarm may be triggered. This is because ill-fitting doors and windows may be able to move the slightest (even when closed) triggering sensors especially if there is bad weather conditions or someone slams a door somewhere else within the building.

To reduce the chance or windows and doors setting off your alarm, make sure that all doors and windows are properly fitted. Meaning that when they are closed there is very little to no movement when pushed or pulled.

How to reduce false alarms

Even though the main culprits for false alarms have been highlighted, there are some other things you can do to reduce the chances of experiencing a false alarm.

Carry out routine maintenance – False alarms can be triggered by a fault within your systems. Simple things like batteries running out, short-circuiting or damage. Carrying out regular check can ensure that these don’t happen. If you have an older alarm system – it may be liable to falsely alerts so it may be a good idea to upgrade to a newer system.

Keep everyone in the loop – if you make any changes to your system, it is best to notify your monitoring service provider. This includes adding or changing passcodes, adding or removing authorised users and making changes to arming times/locations.

Enforce entry/exit procedures – it’s important to inform employees of which entrances and exits they are permitted to use and what times. Make sure that employees lock all doors and windows correctly before leaving and show authorised users how to properly arm the system before leaving.

Log all false alarms – If your alarm system is falsely alerting on a regular basis, make sure that you record the time and dates of every occurrence. This will help you work out why your alarm system is falsely alerting and allow you to put measures in place to prevent it from happening again.

Make sure your system is properly installed – when having a new alarm system installed, ensure it is being installed by a certified security provider. An alarm system that hasn’t been installed correctly is far more likely to falsely alert.

 

A&R Security services provide alarm response and secure key holding services to businesses in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend, RCT and South Wales. For more information about our services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

CaravanStorage, Caravan Storage Security, Security Services, Cardiff, Newport, RCT, Bridgend, Swansea

Caravan Storage – Keeping your site secure

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With holiday prices rising over the years many families have turned to caravanning, visiting historical landmarks, picturesque countryside and fabulous beaches – and South Wales has plenty of those.

But after the summer sun has hidden behind the clouds, this time of year sees caravaners shutting their caravans for the winter and putting them into storage – presenting thieves a perfect opportunity to either break into caravans, stealing valuable equipment or stealing the caravan itself.

According to the Caravan and Camping club in 2015 caravan thefts had risen by 20% on previous years. Although there are peak times for caravans to be stolen – thefts can happen all year round.

To minimise theft, caravaners will possibly look at caravan storage facilities. But it is important that your caravan storage facility has lock tight security to deter criminals and put owners’ minds at ease.

If your site doesn’t have lock-tight security – what can you do to boost it?

Robust gates and fencing

Many storage facilities will have gates and fencing around the perimeter of their site, but it is important that they are robust enough that they are not easily damaged and broken into to get into your storage site. To make your perimeter security more robust use electric gates that have either a keypad or key card entry system. Not only does this mean that only your staff and caravan owners enter your storage site – it can allow you or security to monitor who is coming in and out.

Also using fencing that has a tight lattice and sharpened edge to the top can prevent criminals from attempting to squeeze through fencing or climb over the top.

CCTV

Although CCTV is basic security, it can help monitor your site day or night – helping security staff lookout for any suspicious activity either around the perimeter of your storage facility or to any caravans inside and respond accordingly.

Lighting

Security lighting is another basic security measure, but it can easily deter criminals from attempting to get near your caravan storage site – especially under the cover of darkness. Having security lights can light up areas that are normally blind spots for security guards or CCTV and if anyone attempts to get near, if criminals are lit up – they will be made to feel like they have been caught.

Security Guards

Depending on the location and the size of your caravan storage site, security guards can provide that extra bit of security. Manned guards can be positioned near gates or areas that are often exploited by trespassers and can monitor CCTV for any suspicious activity. Mobile Security Guards can patrol your facilities different compounds, making sure that gates are secure and there have been no attempts at entering your storage facility. If there is any activity, security guards can quickly respond to trespassers and deal with them accordingly.

 

A&R Security Services can provide manned guarding and mobile security services to storage facilities in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend and RCT. For more information about our security services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Hopsitals, Hospital, Hospital Security, Security Services, Security

Is your hospital security at risk?

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In recent years the Welsh NHS has been increasingly under stress despite having increased budgets for a number of its services. Although the NHS is one of the biggest employers in Wales and the UK – it has seen a number of shortages which has had an effect on A&E waiting times and the performance of their services.

With so many relying on the NHS in Wales it is important that healthcare facilities and hospitals can deal with any threats from both patients and employees.

So, there are some questions to consider when implementing security in healthcare facilities and hospitals.

How often are risk assessments conducted?

Carrying out risk assessments is vital to ensure that you can spot potential hazards which could injure patients and staff, cause ill health or leave people in a vulnerable position. By holding regular risk assessments, hospitals can spot potential hazards before they cause major disruptions.

Are my staff subject to violence?

In Wales, alone there have been 18,000 reports of violent attacks, aggression or verbal abuse on staff either from patients or other employees in hospitals.

The most effective way to check that your staff are protected from violent behaviour is to install CCTV systems in areas such as entrance areas, reception areas, waiting areas, outside nurse stations and staff rooms and corridors.

Another way in which the situations can be avoided is by hiring security staff and station them in areas where there may potential for conflict.

Also implementing reporting systems will also help staff to record everything that happens, so evidence can be provided if any legal action is taken.

Are Medicines and hazardous substances secure?

To ensure medicines and hazardous substance are not stolen, ensure that they are locked away in secure cupboards and other secure locations within the building. For added extra security, ensure that doors and cupboards are PIN secured or padlocked when not in use to avoid anything being stolen or tampered with and conducts regular audits to ensure they don’t end up in the wrong hands.

What equipment needs to be updated or secured?

If equipment is outdated or in need of repair, make sure that they are replaced or fixed as soon as possible. Make sure that they are regularly checked and maintained, and any faulty machinery have warning signs to alert staff and patients no to use it.

How Secure are the staff entrances?

Within hospitals there are areas that the public cannot enter. But having doors or corridors without key card scanners or password protected doors can allow the public gain access to confidential records.

Is there help for staff suffering from stress?

Mental health well-being is something that can become compromised especially dealing with stressful situations on a regular basis. It is important to offer staff help if they feel overworked or unable to cope with the challenging demands that they face. Doing so ensure that staff are not overworked and reduce of medical mistakes.

 

A&R Security Services can provide comprehensive security solutions to healthcare facilities in Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend and South Wales. If you are in need to Manned Guarding, Mobile Security or Concierge Services call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.

Robbery, Armed Robbery, Violent Robbery, Robberies, Violent Robberies, Armed Robberies, Violent Crime, A&R Security Services

Violent robbery rise blamed on police cuts and rise in smartphone use

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In recent news, it’s been reported by the BBC that robberies are increasing at a faster rate in England and Wales than in any major developed country.

Within the last year, it’s been found that 269,000 young people were involved in or at risk of violent crime and that the use of smartphones and cuts to police patrols are behind the rise.

Between 2014 – 2018 robberies in England and Wales has increased by 33%, which researchers believed was significant because robbery acted as an entry point for violent crimes. With knife-related robberies increasing by 33%.

Violent crime recorded by police in England and Wales has risen by 19% in the last year – with the number of homicides (including murder and manslaughter) rising from 649 to 739 an increase of 14% since the end of September 2018. This is the highest total for crimes since 2007.

The report run by the BBC suggested that the availability of smartphones are connected to the increase of violent robberies with 8 in 10 people in the UK using them, higher than any country.

It also suggested that pressure on policing after budget cuts to officer posts between 2010 and 2018 was a contributor to the increase and pointed out that only 7% of robbery cases resulted in a suspect being charged compared to 21% four years ago.

Mr Redgrave from Crest Advisory said “ Criminals respond to incentives and if they feel they’re not being effectively policed – often these crimes are opportunistic – we’re likely to see an increase in these types of offences”

However, a spokesperson from the Home office suggested that changes in the way that robberies were logged are partly responsible for the rise in violent robberies.

“We are pleased with improvements in police recording, which have contributed to reported increases in robbery offences” they also added “ We are giving police the tools they need to keep families, communities and our country safe, including recruiting 20,000 new police officers and making it easier for them to use stope-and-search powers”

For more information about the report, robberies or violent crimes visit the BBC News website here.

A&R Security Services provide comprehensive security solutions in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, South Wales and South West. For a free quote call 01656 713950 or visit our website for further details of our security services.

Customer Experience, Customer Service, Business Security, Security Services, A&R Security Services

The Importance of Customer Experience in the Security Industry

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For business owners, it can be a bit of a minefield to find the right security service. They want to know that the security provider that they have chosen will give them the best possible service as well as listen to their needs.

That is why here at A&R Security Services, we listen to our customers and tailor our services to them and any changes are noted and implemented.

So, here are some ways in which the customer experience will enhance your business by hiring security professionals

Transparent security presence.

Security guards should convey the impression that guards are ready to protect staff, clients and visitors by performing manned patrols at your business. Manned Security guards can quickly respond to incidents, as well as acting as a point of contact for anyone who needs assistance.

Face of the business

If you have a business or building that has front of house services, having concierge or front of house guards can protect your business. As soon as someone enters your building, they are greeted by a friendly and familiar face – who not only is able to protect them, but also act as the face of your business. Having front of house or concierge security staff to greet everyone who comes and goes will ensure your reputation for customer service is upheld. As simple as it sounds, greeting visitors as they enter, and leave will give them the idea that they are appreciated and valued by your business. Also, it is a way for your security guards to identify and describe people easily if anyone commits a crime.

Maintaining client’s relationships

Having consistent security will reassure your customers that security guards will always be around to keep watch and protect. Having security guards to take the time to listen to clients worries and needs will confirm that the solution provided by the service will be delivered and help maintain a good relationship with your customers.

Addressing mistakes to gain trust

We all know that mistakes happen, and we learn from them. So, for professionals it’s better to address issues straight away and apologies to the customer – not run away from it and deny it ever happened.  When your business accepts that something went wrong, it will gain trust from customers who will be reassured that the mistakes are unlikely to happen again, and every effort will be made to fix the situation as soon as possible.

Human interaction

With the world thriving on the latest technological advancements, it is important for us to remember that the value of human interaction has in daily life. Creating a place in which customers can receive personable and physical recognition from staff can help customers who perhaps feel lonely, or in need of a friendly face. Security guards can be that form of human interaction at any time day or night.

Attention to Detail

One way in which you can guarantee customer satisfaction is by paying attention to the small things. Security guards paying attention to the smallest of details can go a long way especially if there is a problem that needs to be fixed.

Risk assessments to determine solutions

Having regular risk assessments of the premises will ensure that all areas are maintained for consistent monitoring, deterring crime and dealing with emergency situations. Security personnel can keep track of findings and compile reports so that legally you are covered for any claims made against your business.

Here at A&R Security Services, we offer tailored security solutions to businesses across Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Bridgend, South Wales and the South West. To find out more about our Manned guarding, Mobile Security Patrols, Secure Keyholding and Alarm Response Services – call us on 01656 713950 or visit our website.