As the MSM is full of stories about the RAAC concrete problems affecting many older school buildings, now is the time for brokers in the educational sector to reach out to buildings managers and maintenance/inspection specialists across the public sector. It isn’t just crumbling concrete either, many schools and collecges are vulnerable to break-ins and arson attacks. Here’s the word from Ecclesiastical;
New research commissioned by specialist education insurer Ecclesiastical has revealed more than half of schools (52%) believe they would benefit from more crime and security risk guidance from their insurer or insurance broker, up 11% on the previous year, presenting an opportunity for brokers. Schools are a prime target for offenders as four in five (79%) have experienced crime during the past 12 months, up 15% on the previous year.
The survey of 500 UK teachers found over a third (35%) of schools have suffered anti-social behaviour, up 7% on the previous year. Three in 10 (31%) were defaced by graffiti, up 8%, and 28% suffered trespassing, up 4%. On average, crime over the past 12 months has cost schools more than £26,000, double the previous year. The majority (88%) of schools have taken proactive steps to prevent crime during the past 12 months and investments in CCTV, alarms, and security lighting have increased.
However, schools are assessing crime and security risks less frequently and half (50%) of teachers believe their school needs to do more to prevent crime.
Faith Kitchen, customer segment director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said:
“As one of the leading insurers of schools in the UK, Ecclesiastical is passionate about supporting the education sector. Our research shows schools are a prime target for criminals and it’s concerning to see four in five have suffered a crime during the past year. Brokers play an important role in helping education clients understand the risks they are facing and in ensuring they have the right cover in place. There are 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. 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.”
Ecclesiastical Insurance offers a range of risk management support and guidance to help schools manage the risks they face. For more information visit ecclesiastical.com/risk-management/education-insurance
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