Caravan thefts down 70% since 2000

Figures show that caravan thefts have dropped by a staggering 70% since 2000. The Leisure Sector Crime Reduction Action Team (LSCRAT) industry bodies and consumer groups have made a significant impact on the level of caravan crime.

According to Alan Bishop, Chairman of LSCRAT, “Today we are enjoying the lowest ever recorded theft figures for caravans. When the Home Office asked me to take the Chair of the LSCRAT in early 2000, caravan thefts were at an all time high. Over 5,000 caravans were being stolen every year causing distress to their owners and costing the industry millions. By working together we have reduced that by some 70% with current levels running at just 1,600 per annum.”

A key part of the success is down to an education programme designed to help police officers throughout the country. Central to this programme was the improved access provided by HPI to the NCC’s Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme, (CRiS) which is now available on-line 24/7 as part of a suite of police support tools. Innovative built-in security devices were developed, while consumer groups raised awareness of the need for vigilance.

"By far the greatest impact" says Bishop, "has been through improved police activity. It is important that we continue to build on this success. Nobody should think ‘job done’, otherwise we will soon see a return to the multi-million pound losses the industry suffered at the end of the last century. I am confident that new initiatives in the pipe-line and the on-going commitment to police liaison will ensure we reduce the levels of caravan theft even further.”