Unfortunately, detection rates are low as the thefts tend to occur at night and many allotment sites are not overlooked or in more isolated locations. This makes them easy targets.

It is also very easy for thieves to dispose of stolen goods at car boot sales.

Be Aware

If you see strangers wandering about the allotment site or in close proximity to the perimeter or to the gate, you can ask engage them in conversation,  That may  convince them there is a chance of being identified if there is a break in. Only try this approach if there is more than one person making the approach and don’t do so if you have any concerns or doubts about the nature of the individual.

Produce Theft

One particular irritant is stolen produce.  Clearly there is little that a plot holder can do to protect produce, but there are a couple of things:

• Make sure that your plot does not look like it is derelict – people are more inclined to take fruit etc if they think no one is looking after the plot and it is going to waste.
• Get to know your neighbours and if you see anyone wandering about on their plot, let them know.   Again, take care if approaching strangers and only do so if there is more than one person.

CCTV

You may wish to consider installing CCTV on your plot. If you do, be mindful that the camera must cover only your plot and not any others. If you do install CCTV, you must put up a warning that your plot is covered by CCTV and that any images, where a theft has taken place will be provided to the police.

Storing Equipment on-site

The best advice is simply not to store large, valuable items of machinery in your shed.

If you do chose to store large or valuable items of machinery on your plot, try and make it as difficult for the thieves by:

• Even if inside your shed chain larger tools together through their handles.
  • Large, heavy items such as lawn mowers or cultivators can also  be chained together. Use the most heavy-duty chain and good quality padlock that you can.
  • Alternatively, you can link the chain or lock to a flagstone using a security ground anchor.
  • If you don’t have a flagstone then consider filling a bucket with concrete. Use a masonry fixing then chain your equipment to it

Although there is a cost to these preventative measures, the cost is usually substantially less than replacing your items

Gate Security

Do not lend gate keys to non-members.  If you do so you may face eviction.

After entering or leaving, you must always ensure the gates (at the top or bottom of the site) are locked.

Reporting to the Police

Always report incidents to the police at the time of the event. It is harder to act on delayed information and gives the police less chance of catching any offenders. When reporting incidents to the police, always obtain a log number this will be make it easier for you to collate and give you a point of reference should you or someone else need to ring back at a later time with additional information.

The Committee

The Committee work hard to ensure that gates, locks and fences are in good working order and are able to liaise with the local policing team. Once you have reported the matter to the police, please advise the Committee, who will ask for witnesses and CCTV images.

Summary

There are low cost options which can used to ensure the  security of sheds and equipment. Site, including vigilance and common sense.

A combination of action by individual plot holders and the work of the  Committee reviewing and putting in place sensible security measures can go a long way to ensuring the security of plots and the allotment as a whole.