Broker wellbeing: Firms making progress but brokers still feeling the strain
Ecclesiastical survey finds stress levels have risen to their highest levels since 2019.
Churches are being urged to take steps to prevent break ins following a series of incidents across the UK.
The warning comes from specialist insurer Ecclesiastical following a spate of thefts from churches across the country.
Among the churches targeted in the first half of 2024 are Grade-I listed Holy Trinity Church in Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire which had a silver plate, chalices and other items used for communion stolen, St Nicholas’ Church in Kings Norton, Birmingham which was burgled and a stained-glass window smashed by a thief and in St Mary's Church, Henley-on-Thames a safe was cracked and cash collection stolen.
Most recently St Augustine Church in Edgbaston, Birmingham had a Victorian lectern stolen last week with the thief captured on CCTV entering and leaving the church with the brass eagle wrapped in a blanket.
Earlier this year a report published by Historic England and the National Police Chief’s Council highlighted the risk of an increase in theft of valuable heritage materials and cultural objects by opportunist offenders and organised crime groups as inflation continues to impact on the price of commodities.
Ecclesiastical is urging churches across the country to carry out reviews of their security arrangements as a result of this recent increase in break-ins and thefts,
Helen Richards, Church Operations Director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “Theft from church buildings can have a heartbreaking impact, both on the volunteers and congregation who give their time to worship at the church and also to the potential loss of heritage.
“Sadly we’re seeing more incidents where churches are being targeted, with items such as silver, cash, statues, furniture and even paving stones being stolen. While many of these items have limited financial value, they are irreplaceable, and the emotional impact of that loss can be devastating.
“There is a real risk the economic challenges in the UK and high value of silver could see an increase in thefts from historical buildings such as churches, so we’re urging churches across the country take steps to protect themselves and follow our guidance which is available through our website.
We still want churches to be open during the day to their communities, congregation and potential visitors but we must all be aware of the risks. It is critically important that churches follow our risk management advice to protect themselves. Our team of experts is on hand to support customers and can be contacted on 0345 777 3322.”
The specialist insurer’s risk management team advises churches to take the following steps: