Dear Resident, The theft of jewellery can be extremely distressing for victims and their families. Jewellery is often of significant sentimental value, having been gifted or passed down through generations, making its loss impossible to replace. It is important to protect your home and safeguard valuable items, particularly jewellery. Gold jewellery is frequently targeted by thieves, who often search bedrooms, loft spaces, behind bath panels, and even beneath floorboards when committing burglaries. How You Can Protect Your Jewellery Storage Try not to keep large quantities of gold or valuable jewellery at home where possible. Consider using a safety deposit box. Specialist companies provide this service, and your bank or insurance provider may be able to offer further advice. If you prefer to keep valuable items at home, ensure they are stored in a safe that meets your insurer's required standard. Any safe should be securely anchored to a substantial surface, such as a brick wall or concrete floor, and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Consider storing valuables separately. Having more than one secure storage location may reduce the risk of all items being stolen in a single incident. Approved and tested security products that have achieved the police-approved Secured by Design accreditation can be found at www.securedbydesign.com. Home Security Ensure all doors and windows are in good working order and are locked when leaving your property or retiring for the night. You may be surprised by how many burglaries occur through an unlocked door or an open window. For advice on improving your home security, including door and window locks, contact an approved locksmith registered with the Master Locksmiths Association at www.locksmiths.co.uk. Monitored intruder alarms, panic buttons, CCTV systems (including video doorbells), and security lighting can all provide additional layers of protection. Security companies accredited by the NSI or SSAIB can advise on products most suitable for your circumstances. For more information, visit www.ssaib.org or www.nsi.org.uk. Only use reputable tradespeople and contractors when allowing individuals access to your home. Do not be tempted by unusually cheap offers of work. Record and Register Your Property Photograph all jewellery on a plain background with a ruler placed alongside each item. These photographs can assist police investigations and appeals if the items are stolen. Store copies of the images in more than one secure location. Register your valuables free of charge at www.immobilise.com. Consider using forensic property marking products, which can help link recovered property back to its rightful owner. Always seek specialist advice before marking expensive, antique, or irreplaceable items. Further information can be found at www.securedbydesign.com. Ensure you have adequate insurance cover for your home and possessions, including high-value jewellery. Communication and Awareness Be aware that visible displays of expensive jewellery or religious symbols may identify someone as a potential target for offenders. Offenders often use social media to identify and target victims. Be mindful of what you and your family share online and avoid posting information that reveals your location, routines, or valuable possessions. Use local community social media groups and Neighbourhood Watch schemes to share information and remain informed about crime trends in your area. Remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, however insignificant it may appear. Ask yourself: does the behaviour seem unusual or out of place? If you become a victim of crime, call 101 for non-emergency incidents. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress or if you believe you are in immediate danger. Where possible, provide an accurate location and details of any vehicles involved, including registration numbers. We hope this information helps. | 
