According to recently released research, the cost of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage to UK businesses amounts to an overwhelming £9.8 billion per annum. The issue continues to cost businesses huge amounts of money every year as the problem escalates.
The study was carried out for RSA insurance company by One Poll, and revealed that the cost of yob mentality amounts to around £4,000 for each UK business. The anti-social behaviour includes smashed windows, broken doors, harassment, theft, graffiti and intimidating behaviour. Nearly 20 percent of businesses were victims of criminal damage or anti-social behaviour in 2011, which cost each of the companies affected around £20,000.
The most typical problems for businesses were smashed windows, doors and theft. Of the 1,000 business managers who were included in the research, 37 percent expect the problems to escalate in 2012, especially as the UK economy is unstable. The commercial managing director of RSA, Jon Hancock said:
“This research shows that Britain’s yob culture is having a tangible and negative impact on British businesses up and down the country.”
He further stated that hard working and honest businesses all over the UK are paying for this behaviour, while already struggling to survive. Ensuring that adequate protection is in place may guard against unexpected expenses if damage does occur, which small business accountants will advise. The research indicated that anti-social behaviour is expected to cost UK businesses even more in 2012, so employers are advised to consider future protection of their company.
