The Significance of Farm Security
25-10-2023
With the NFU Mutual reporting a continual increase in rural crime, reaching another year of record highs in the UK, the importance of securing your farm has never been more pronounced.
Comprising of sole traders and family partnerships, our rural and agricultural sector contributes to approximately 64% of the food supply in the UK. According to the Office for National Statistics, as of June 1, 2022, England had 391,000 agricultural workers.
Many farmers engage in sideline businesses such as farm shops, B&Bs, and other enterprises. Consequently, criminal activities have a tangible impact on their lives.
Securing the land is undeniably of paramount importance, given NFU's report of a 22.1% increase in the cost of rural crime, estimated at £49.5 million. Shockingly, 70% of NFU Mutual Agents are aware of farmers who have been recurrent victims of rural crime, often feeling singled out and vulnerable. These crimes affect not only their workplace but also their family homes.
The NFU survey highlights a 29% rise in agricultural vehicle claims, totalling £11.7 million in 2022. Furthermore, trailer theft costs have increased by 66% to £2.9 million due to high demand in second-hand markets. Fuel theft from farms and rural homes has doubled.
Traditional livestock theft has risen by 8.7% to an estimated £2.7 million and remains one of the most financially impactful crimes in farming. It can severely affect breeding lines and, crucially, the welfare of the stolen animals.
Clearly, deterring criminals and implementing protective measures is crucial to safeguard your assets, livestock, and land. This, however, is not always straightforward. That's why we offer a range of security barriers that provide various options, including Temporary Vertical Concrete Barriers (TVCB), Vehicle Security Barriers (VSB), Vehicle Containment Barriers (VCB), Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM), Tank Trap Pyramid Barriers (TTPB), Jersey Barriers, Security Blocks, and for areas needing an extra touch, our security planters offer a blend of security and aesthetics, all readily available in stock.
In addition to these barriers, we provide security lighting and CCTV systems to protect areas that cannot solely rely on modern security methods that depend on internet connectivity.
Our precast blocks and barriers are constructed with precast concrete for a reason. Their substantial weight makes it challenging for criminals to remove or bypass them, yet they can be easily installed or relocated using typical farming machinery. Your farm security is our top priority, and we are here to assist you in fortifying your peace of mind.