Charity Shops in Dorset Urged to Boost Security Amid Steep Rise in Shoplifting Incidents

Rising concerns over shoplifting and theft have prompted charity shops in Dorset to increase security measures, following a 76 per cent surge in reported incidents since 2020. According to figures from the Office for National Statistics, over 5,300 cases of shoplifting were recorded in the county in the 12 months to June 2025, with 68 incidents involving charities specifically. In response, charity insurer Ansvar is advising shop owners to take proactive measures to safeguard their assets, staff, and volunteers.

Key Takeaways:

The Office for National Statistics recorded 5,300 shoplifting incidents in Dorset between July 2024 and June 2025, a 76% increase from 2020.
68 of these incidents specifically targeted charity shops, highlighting the vulnerability of these establishments.
Charity insurer Ansvar has shared five security tips for charity shops, including minimizing cash on the premises, providing security awareness training to staff and volunteers, and installing security equipment such as CCTV cameras and mirrors.
Ansvar is calling for increased vigilance and proactive risk management to protect charity shops and their volunteers from theft.
The Benefact Group, the parent organization of Ansvar, is the UK's third-largest corporate donor and donates all available profits to charity and good causes.

Statistics:

5,300: The number of shoplifting incidents reported in Dorset between July 2024 and June 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics.
76%: The percentage increase in shoplifting incidents in Dorset since 2020.
68: The number of incidents involving theft against charities in Dorset between July 2024 and June 2025.
12 months: The period covered by the Office for National Statistics data on shoplifting incidents in Dorset up to June 2025.

Sources:

Office for National Statistics (ONS)
Freedom of Information request to Dorset Police
Ansvar (via The Benefact Group)