AUDI A3, HONDA CIVIC & FORD FOCUS ARE SCOTLANDS MOST STOLEN CARS
Further research finds that almost 1 in 5 (18%) motorists have had their car stolen before, equating to 7,608,568 UK drivers.(1) That’s as 14% of Scots admit to having their car stolen.
More cars were stolen from streets outside the victim’s home (37%) in Scotland than any other location.
With car thefts affecting so many drivers, Confused.com has launched a probability tool. Drivers can use this to find out how likely thieves are to steal the car they’re considering.
Rhydian Jones, car insurance expert at Confused.com shares advice on car theft prevention, and what to do if you need to make a claim
The Ford Fiesta is a firm favourite among drivers, with around 1.5 million on UK roads.However, it’s also the most targeted car by thieves, new data reveals.
The data, released by Confused.com, highlights the number of stolen vehicles since January 2018, with certain models and areas facing a significantly higher risk. This is based on customers who have made a claim for ‘theft of car’ on their insurance in this period.
In total, 10,346 thefts of Ford Fiesta have been reported since January 2018, according to car theft claims declared through Confused.com. This averages around 2,000 thefts per year, making it the most targeted car in the UK. Volkswagen Golf follows, with a total of 9,526 thefts over the same period, and BMW 3 Series ranks third with a total of 9,148 thefts.
Make and model (Car)
Units stolen
Ford Fiesta
10,346
Volkswagen Golf
9,526
BMW 3 Series
9,148
Ford Focus
6,664
BMW 1 Series
6,286
Mercedes-Benz C Class
5,698
Audi A3
5,551
Range Rover Sport
5,472
Vauxhall Corsa
4,992
Vauxhall Astra
4,357
However, the most targeted cars can vary by area of Scotland. For example, in Glasgow, the Audi A3 is the most stolen car. Yet in Edinburgh, a Honda Civic tops the list as the most reported stolen vehicle in the past 5 years.
The Scottish cities with the most stolen cars include:
City
Most stolen car
Glasgow
Audi A3 SE
Edinburgh
Honda Civic S
Aberdeen
Volkswagen Touareg R Line Plus
Motherwell
SAAB 9-3 Linear SE
Kirkcaldy
Renault Clio Dynamique
With so many drivers falling victim to car thefts, Confused.com has launched a new tool which shows the likelihood of a car being stolen.
This is based on the make, model and variant. Users can input the car they own, or are considering buying, into the tool and receive an estimate of its theft risk.
Armed with this knowledge, car buyers can make more informed decisions about their purchases.
In total, more than 250,000 thefts of cars have been reported since January 2018, according to Confused.com’s data. But the issue goes back further than this, as research found that almost 1 in 5 (18%) UK drivers have experienced car theft in the past. That’s equivalent to 7,608,568 motorists.
And according to the research by Confused.com, thieves aren’t always being particularly cautious with their methods, which suggests anyone could be at risk. In fact, more cars were stolen from streets outside the victim’s home (28%) than any other location, followed by their driveway (15%).
And it seems thieves are using a range of methods to successfully steal cars. Almost 1 in 4 (23%) stolen cars were hot-wired, 1 in 4 (22%) had their windows smashed and unfortunately 1 in 10 (10%) had their house broken into to steal the keys.
But it’s not all bad news as almost 9 in 10 (87%) of those who had their cars stolen said it was retrieved. Almost 2 in 3 (62%) said the police found it and 15% said they found it themselves. And technology clearly plays a role.
Over 1 in ten (14%) said they had security footage that showed the car being stolen, either from their own devices or their neighbours. A further 12% said they had a tracker on their car when it was stolen, which enabled them to find where it had been taken to.
It shows that having additional security pays. And as we head further into the winter season, getting closer to the clocks coming forward, drivers are being reminded to use car theft prevention devices. However, worryingly 28% of drivers admit they don’t use any additional security on their car.
But for those taking extra precautions, the most popular were found to be steering locks (19%), GPS trackers (17%), parking in a garage (17%) and putting car keys in a faraday pouch (12%). One in 10 also said they use a car key signal blocker as keyless car theft seems to be on the rise.
But it isn’t just the stress of having their car stolen which affects victims. In fact many were also left with significant financial burdens. Whilst the majority of cars are returned, almost 9 in 10 (87%) said their cars were returned damaged. On average, drivers had to spend £364 to repair damages and £671 to top up the cost of a new car.
With car thefts having such a significant impact on victims, it’s important that drivers are considering extra measures to keep their car as secure as possible – especially if their car is among the most targeted by thieves.
Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com car insurance, comments: ““Having your car stolen is a stress on both your life and your living costs too. And with general car insurance costs at extreme highs, the impact of having your car stolen is proving to be a burden on drivers and the price they pay for their car insurance.
“That’s why it’s important that drivers do all they can to protect their cars from thieves. And there are many ways to do this. These include:
Checking your car is locked – This might sound like an obvious one, but this is especially important with more modern cars having keyless locking systems. It’s easy to forget to double check or lock your car in the first place. It’ll also impact your claim if your car is stolen and you’re not sure if you locked it or not.
Hiding valuables in your car – don’t leave any valuables like handbags, tech or money visible in your car. This could make it more attractive to break into and steal.
Investing in car security – steering wheel and handbrake locks are effective ways to protect your car from thieves. The brightly coloured locks also act as a visual deterrent.
Installing a tracking device – although this doesn’t prevent your car from being stolen, it can improve its chances of being recovered.
“Taking measures to protect your car can help ensure that it doesn’t become a target. And if you’re changing your car, use our car theft probability calculator. This can help you work out how likely thieves in your area are to steal that car model.”
Data from the Scottish Government reveals a significant decline in fire incidents at non-domestic buildings in Edinburgh. Between the financial years of 2018/2019 and 2022/2023, fire and rescue services attended 991 incidents, representing a 25% decrease from the previous five years.
The decline underscores the effectiveness of work that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service does with local organisations to raise awareness about fire safety practices. Coupled with the rules set out in the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006, which mandates comprehensive fire risk assessments for all businesses, this demonstrates the impact of proactive measures.
Ansvar, an expert provider of insurance for the charity, care, not-for-profit, and faith sectors, is emphasising the importance of continued vigilance.
Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, commented: “The decrease in fire incidents in Edinburgh is extremely positive news and highlights the impact that greater awareness and regulation reforms can have, particularly for protecting smaller businesses and organisations in the non-profit sectors, where operational continuity is paramount.
“Unlike large commercial companies, who may operate across multiple locations or have an ability to utilise hybrid working, many charities and not-for-profit groups cannot continue to function if their premises are rendered unusable due to fire.
“Organisations can take obvious steps like ensuring all areas are equipped with fire alarms and smoke detectors, conducting regular risk assessments, and providing fire safety training to staff and volunteers.
“However, there are also less obvious measures that can significantly enhance preparedness and resilience against fire incidents. We are encouraging organisations to incorporate these into their fire safety plans for comprehensive protection.”
Ansvar has outlined five essential tips to further reduce fire incidents:
Storage and housekeeping: Poor storage practices, such as keeping flammable materials near heat sources, can significantly increase fire risk. Regular housekeeping to keep areas tidy and free of obstructions is crucial. If the organisation has a kitchen facility, ensure proper ventilation, regular cleaning of grease traps and extractor fans, and staff training on safe cooking procedures.
Be arson aware: Arson can be one of the biggest causes of fire in non-domestic buildings. Ensure a building is secure when empty to deter intruders. Ansvar has put together an arson checklist, which is available to download from its website – https://www.ansvar.co.uk/home/risk-management-guides-arson/.
Evacuation plan accessibility: Consider those with disabilities during fire drills and that evacuation plans account for different needs. This might involve designated evacuation assistants or specific procedures.
Secure specialist insurance cover: Organisations should have comprehensive insurance cover specifically designed for their sector. Specialist insurance policies can provide tailored protection and support, helping to mitigate the financial and operational impact of fire-related incidents.
Maintain safety of electrical items: Regularly inspect and maintain all electrical equipment, including portable appliances, and wiring. Use qualified electricians for any repairs or installations and avoid overloading electrical sockets. Proper care and maintenance of electrical items can significantly reduce the risk of fire.
Adam Tier added: “While preventative measures are crucial, specialist insurance tailored to the unique needs of the not-for-profit sector can provide essential protection in the event of a fire. This helps ensure organisations can recover quickly and continue their important work within the community.”
Ansvar is part of the Benefact Group, a charity-owned specialist financial services organisation. The Benefact Group is the UK’s third-largest corporate donor, underscoring Ansvar’s dedication to supporting the wider charitable community.
Schools in Scotland are being warned to take precautions amid fears of a spike in crime over the summer holidays.
As many schools across the country close their doors for the summer holidays, specialist insurer Ecclesiastical says schools will be an attractive target for criminals over the coming months.
Ecclesiastical is encouraging Scotland residents who live near local schools to be vigilant this summer and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.
Ecclesiastical reports schools have been targeted over the summer months including vandalism, arson, break-ins, smashed windows, theft of lead from roofs and stolen laptops.
Amid the high cost of living and more facing economic hardship, there are worries there will be a rise in criminal activity.
Laura Carter, customer segment director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “Schools are more vulnerable during the summer holidays when school buildings are closed and largely unoccupied, tempting opportunists.
“With the high cost of living and more facing economic hardship, it is more important than ever that schools take steps to protect their premises from offenders. There are a number of measures schools can take to better secure school property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection.
“Fencing around the perimeter can often offer a good first line of defence against unwanted visitors, while CCTV can act as a visual deterrent for those not wanting to be caught on camera. Vigilance from the local community can be a huge help. We urge those who live near schools to be vigilant this summer and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.”
How to protect schools in Scotland this summer
Ensure CCTV systems have remote 24/7 monitoring services. Monitoring and alerting the police is far more effective than tracing criminals after a crime has taken place.
Install remotely monitored intruder alarms and change alarm security codes and passwords on a regular basis.
Install security lighting systems that have motion sensors to detect body movements.
Restrict access to school premises. Well-designed perimeter security such as walls, fences and electric security gates, and anti-climb paint help to prevent people from getting onto school sites.
Restrict vehicular access to the school site. Locate any designated parking as far from the school building as possible. The further thieves have to travel on foot the greater the risk of detection.
Use security marking systems such as SmartWater which can help with successful prosecution of thieves.
Ask the local community near your school to be vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice on school grounds.
Inform neighbourhood watch schemes / police liaison officers of planned work over the holidays as thieves might pose as contractors.
Seek advice. Specialist insurers can offer advice and expertise to help schools manage security risks. Insurers can offer a combination of onsite and remote risk management services including security assessments and advice, alongside broader property protection and building valuation services.
Ecclesiastical Insurance offers a range of risk management support and guidance to help schools manage the risks they face.
For more information, visit the Ecclesiastical website for education risk guidance here.
As new research from The National Lottery Community Fund [1] reveals a growing enthusiasm for volunteering among UK adults, Ansvar Insurance is calling on charities and organisations across Edinburgh to prioritise the safety and management of their volunteer programmes.
The research indicates that half of UK adults (a slight increase on last year) plan to volunteer in 2024, with 14% intending to volunteer for the first time, citing food banks, animal welfare, and charity shops as the most popular initiatives to get involved with.
In Edinburgh specifically (according to the latest data from the Scottish Household Survey [2]), 19% of residents volunteered in 2022.
The benefits of volunteering, such as providing young people with new life skills and reducing loneliness among the elderly, have become increasingly recognised, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
While a growing number of volunteers is a positive development for charities, it also presents challenges in managing safety and risk.
Proper risk management is crucial not only for attracting volunteers but also for retaining them and maintaining the organisation’s reputation.
Kelly Barter, Head of Customer Service at Ansvar, an expert provider of insurance for the charity, not-for-profit, care and faith sectors, commented: “Volunteers are the backbone of charitable and community organisations and play a pivotal role in sustaining vital services across Edinburgh.
“However, ensuring their safety and protection is essential. When planning events, the focus is often on activities and fundraising, but the administrative aspects, such as providing adequate supervision, organising appropriate training, completing comprehensive risk assessments, ensuring specialist insurance coverage is in place, and providing a safe environment for volunteers, can sometimes get overlooked.
“Effective risk management protects volunteers and enhances their satisfaction and retention. Volunteers are more likely to stay engaged when they feel safe and valued, leading to a positive and long-lasting experience.”
Ansvar is part of the Benefact Group, the charity-owned specialist financial services organisation. The Benefact Group stands as the UK’s third-largest corporate donor, reinforcing Ansvar’s commitment to supporting the broader charitable community.
More than nine in 10 tradespeople say they or someone they know have been victims of theft
Research shows 88% of those surveyed are concerned about the ongoing issue
Almost a third of tradespeople admit the fear of theft contributes to negative mental health
60% in the industry do not believe mental health is spoken about openly
NFU Mutual is a proud supporter of Samaritans, whose volunteers offer emotional support to anyone who is struggling
More than nine in 10 tradespeople have been targeted by criminals as the fear of theft and violence puts a strain on the industry, alarming stats reveal.
New research* from commercial insurer NFU Mutual found that more than nine in 10 tradespeople (92%) say they or someone they know have been a victim of theft.
In the last 12 months alone, 53% of those surveyed said they had experienced tool or equipment theft, just shy of half had materials pinched, almost three in 10 had a vehicle stolen and 23% were victims of organised crime.
And those figures clearly weigh heavily on those in the industry, with almost a third of tradespeople (29%) admitting that the fear of theft and violence on their business contributes towards difficulties with mental health.
The rising cost of living (42%), financial worries (41%), stress of the job (39%), long hours (35%) and a lack of regular work (33%) were the other factors.
With almost nine in 10 tradespeople concerned about the threat of their equipment being stolen, NFU Mutual is urging workers to remain vigilant.
Zoe Knight, Commercial Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “Theft of tradespeople’s tools or equipment continues to blight the industry and the fact 92% of people surveyed say they – or someone they know – have been a victim speaks volumes.
“Tradespeople rely on this equipment for their income and livelihood, with crime hitting not just their pocket but, as our research shows, also having a huge and negative impact on their mental health.
“To see a third of tradespeople fearing theft or violence in their day-to-day job is worrying and we would urge tradespeople to do all they can to offput the threat of that happening – via security measures and recording serial numbers of equipment.
“We want tradespeople to feel supported and protected should the worst happen and know there is also help available for those struggling.”
A report by Builders Merchants News* revealed in December that texts to a construction charity helpline had seen an increase of 105% after the launch of an initiative to take the mental health message across the UK.
That could pave the way for more open conversations, with NFU Mutual’s survey showing that more than half of respondents believe that mental health isn’t spoken about openly in the trades industry.
While more than three-quarters of tradespeople did say they were confident or fairly confident they would know where to go for support if they were struggling, worryingly, almost four in 10 (36%) said it is unlikely they would seek help if they had mental health problems.
Commercial insurer NFU Mutual is a proud supporter of Samaritans, a charity which offers round the clock emotional support to anyone struggling to cope.
Jason Jaspal, Assistant Director of Business Development at Samaritans, added: “Samaritans offers a listening ear and a safe space to share how you’re feeling 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
“It’s vital that tradespeople reach out for support when they are finding life tough, rather than letting things build up and potentially reaching a crisis point. It doesn’t matter what they’re finding challenging, Samaritans is here so they don’t have to face things alone.”
NFU Mutual Risk Management Services is sharing the following advice to tradespeople:
Minimise storage of tools and equipment in vans: a robust, lockable building is preferable. Consider intruder alarms for high value equipment.
If you have to leave tools and equipment in a van, make sure it’s alarmed and, as a minimum, park against a wall so that doors cannot be opened easily.
Don’t make it easy for thieves to guess that equipment is kept inside (a van or a building) e.g. by leaving items on display and leaving tools around which may assist an intruder.
Store portable items within a robust, lockable store that is fixed in place.
Restrict and control vehicular access to the work site.
Consider video security system (temporary systems and temporary intruder alarm systems are available for site use).
Security mark your tools and equipment (e.g. forensic, engraving or permanent marking) to deter thieves and aid recovery.
Don’t stockpile high value materials such as lead and copper or leave them around for longer than necessary.
For construction vehicles use CESAR marking, tracking and immobilisation to prevent and trace thieves.
Check all locks and security measures before leaving any site e.g. alarms switched on, cameras facing the right direction and security lights working.
In 2023, 629 charities were established across Scotland, an increase of 25 compared to the previous 12 months. Of these, 116 were registered in The Lothians*, signifying a growing trend for people keen to make a meaningful difference in their communities as well as society at large.
The research was conducted by Ansvar, an expert insurer for the charity and not-for-profit sectors, using data available from the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator. It reveals a shift in the philanthropic landscape, indicating that more people are actively seeking ways to contribute positively.
This is prompting Ansvar to extend its support and guidance to those aspiring to establish charities and community organisations.
Martyn Fletcher, Deputy Managing Director at Ansvar, said: “The increase of charitable registrations is definitely something to be celebrated.
“We understand that navigating the complexities of setting up and running a charity successfully can be complicated. It requires careful consideration and planning to ensure long-term success and sustainability.
“We are keen to empower those who want to establish their own charitable organisation in 2024 with the knowledge and resources needed to ensure the longevity and impact of their charitable endeavours.”
With the rise in charitable registrations, Ansvar is providing essential advice and guidance on the often-overlooked aspects of establishing and running a charitable organisation:
Identify the cause and purpose:
Clearly define the mission and objectives of the charity and what positive impact it hopes to achieve. Find out if any charities are already providing the same services, as working together can be more effective than setting up a new charity and competing for resources.
Legal structure:
Choose an appropriate legal structure for the organisation, such as a named fund or trust, social enterprise, or Scottish charitable incorporated organisation (SCIO). Each entity type has distinct legal and regulatory obligations, and being registered as a charity may pose limitations on pursuing the desired activities. It is therefore vital to understand the differences and restrictions.
Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment:
The assessment should include considerations for insufficient funding, governance, compliance, fraud and cybersecurity, and legal and regulatory risks.
Create a business plan:
Develop a detailed business plan outlining goals, activities, target beneficiaries, and anticipated outcomes. Include a budget that covers startup costs, operational expenses, and potential funding sources.
Registration:
Register your charity with the appropriate regulatory body, such as the Scottish Charity Regulator, and ensure understanding and compliance with legal requirements for registration.
Insurance considerations:
Assess the insurance needs of the charity, considering the size and nature of the operations, particularly in relation to staffing, volunteers and fundraising activities. Explore insurance options and work with a provider that understands the nuances of the sector.
Financial management:
Explore potential funding sources, such as grants, donations, and fundraising activities.
Martyn Fletcher added: “Many people embarking on the journey of setting up a charity or community organisation may not be aware of the intricacies involved.
“By carefully addressing each of these steps and risks, aspiring charity founders can lay a solid foundation for their organisations and increase the likelihood of making a positive and sustainable impact in their communities.”
* Data as per charities registered by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator between 1st January 2023 and 30th November 2023.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have begun issuing localised Flood Warnings as Storm Babet approaches.
Rain is already moving across the country, with flooding impacts expected to start this afternoon and into the early evening. The heaviest and most prolonged rainfall is expected over Aberdeen City, Dundee & Angus, Tayside, Aberdeenshire and Caithness & Sutherland, where some exceptional levels are forecast over the next 24 hours.
Extensive river and surface water flooding is expected, with widespread impacts to transport and infrastructure. There is a risk of more significant community scale property flooding – and there will be danger to life.
Other parts of Scotland are also at risk of flooding as rivers respond and drainage systems become overwhelmed. The risk of river flooding is exacerbated by the fact that many catchments are already saturated following recent heavy rainfall events. There is also concern that surface water flooding may be made worse by debris blocking drainage and culverts as a result of the high winds.
An additional band of rain is forecast to impact the east of the country on Saturday, which will prolong the event and keep rivers high. It is important people keep up to date by following weather information from the Met Office and flooding advice from SEPA.
Expert staff in SEPA’s flooding team are working round the clock to check forecasts and models, update Flood Alerts, issue Food Warnings and ensure that partners and responder agencies have the latest information.
Pascal Lardet, SEPA Flood Duty Manager, said: “There is exceptional rainfall forecast for parts of Scotland over the next 24 hours, and this will lead to significant flooding from both surface water and rivers.
“Regional Flood Alerts were issued over the last two days to provide early awareness, and localised Flood Warnings started to be issued this morning. More will be issued across the day, so I do encourage people to check our Flood Updates for all the latest information. You can also follow @SEPAFlood on X. However, it is important to stress that not all areas that could be affected have Flood Warning schemes, so please do take a Flood Alert in your area as advance notice that you could be affected.
“Follow the advice of the emergency services and take action now to protect yourself and your property. Hazards can be hidden, so please don’t walk or drive into flood water. Remember that not only is flood water likely to be dirty, 30 cm of fast flowing water can move an average family sized car, and just 15 cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet.”
SEPA continue to work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7. As well as live information at Flood Updates, people can check the three-day Scottish Flood Forecast to see what conditions are expected further ahead.
Deputy First Minister Shona Robison chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) last night after the highest level Red Weather Warning was issued for the North East of Scotland.
Attended by resilience partners, Transport Scotland, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and emergency services, the meeting set out the significant action being taken to protect the public and mitigate the severe disruption expected over the next few days.
This includes multi-agency resilience arrangements being stood up across the country to co-ordinate the on-the-ground response and support anyone affected by flooding and severe weather.
The Red Warning has been issued by the Met Office for parts of Angus and South Aberdeenshire, valid between Thursday evening (6pm) and Friday afternoon (12pm).
People are urged to not to travel and to stay at home in the affected areas with ‘exceptional’ levels of rain likely to result in significant disruption and danger to life.
There is a further Amber Warning for rain covering parts of Stirling, Perthshire, Aviemore, Moray, Angus, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City from Thursday morning (0600) until Friday evening (1800). In these Amber areas it is being advised people should avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
In addition, an Amber Warning for wind was issued this morning for eastern Angus and eastern Aberdeenshire, valid between 1000 and 1800 on Thursday.
Ms Robison said: “Red Warnings are rarely issued by the Met Office and this reflects how serious the impacts will be from the exceptional weather we can expect – particularly in the North East of Scotland in the next two days.
“The strong message is that if you are in the parts of Angus and South Aberdeenshire affected – please stay at home and do not travel.
“Other parts of Scotland are also at risk of flooding as rivers respond and drainage systems become overwhelmed. The risk is exacerbated by the fact that many catchments are already saturated following last week’s heavy rainfall and flooding.
“No one should take the risks for granted and I would urge everyone in the country to prepare where necessary, heed the travel warnings issued by Police Scotland and take extreme care around fast-flowing water.
“Regional resilience partnerships have been activated and the Scottish Government is working very closely with them and with all partner agencies to ensure that all possible preparations are made and that everyone has full and immediate access to the most up-to-date information.
“I am grateful for the efforts of partners and volunteers in making preparations to help the public stay safe.
“Anyone seeking live updates should follow these partner organisations on social media, and can also consult the Ready Scotland website for general advice on how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from severe weather emergencies.”
Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston said: “Our advice is to avoid any form of travel in those areas covered by the red weather warning.
“Driving conditions are expected to be extremely dangerous with disruption and significant delays during this period.
“In those areas covered by amber warnings for rain and wind, we would urge drivers, particularly those of high-sided vehicles, to consider if their journeys are essential or if they could be delayed until conditions improve.
“Don’t ignore road closure signs – they are for your safety.”
Pascal Lardet, SEPA Flood Duty Manager, said: “Scotland has already experienced a significant flood event this month, which communities are still recovering from, and some of the rainfall totals forecast for this week are higher than experienced over that weekend – albeit in some different areas.
“We’re expecting extensive river and surface water flooding in affected areas, with widespread impacts to transport and infrastructure. There is a risk of more significant community scale property flooding – and there will be danger to life.
“Regional Flood Alerts have already been issued, and localised Flood Warnings will be issued over the next few days as rivers respond. However, it is important to note that not all areas that could be affected have Flood Warning schemes, so please do take a Flood Alert in your area as advance notice that you could be affected.
“Take action now to protect yourself and your property. Hazards can be hidden, so please don’t walk or drive into flood water. Remember that not only is flood water likely to be dirty, 30 cm of fast flowing water can move an average family sized car, and just 15 cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet.”
Dave Thompson, Director of Claims at Tesco Bank, comments: “Parts of the UK and Ireland will be bracing for flooding with Storm Babet expected to bring heavy rain.
“For those who live in areas with an immediate risk of flooding, it is essential households prepare as much as possible for downpours. For example, ensure electrics and electrical appliances are disconnected and gas and water supplies are switched off.
“If your property is flooded, do not switch any of your electrical supplies back on until the flooding is over and they have been checked by a professional.
“Floodwater can also ruin more important and valuable items in your home, so make sure documents such as passports or more cherished items are sealed in plastic wallets and moved upstairs or to a safe place in your property. Then you can think about moving furniture and soft furnishings to a safer place.
“Water can also carry your furniture about your home and cause even more damage, so for heavier items it’s worth thinking about weighing down or securing all the pieces that are too heavy for you to move.
“Having an emergency flood survival kit could also help keep you and your family safe and warm should a flood occur. In your kit, you may want to include first aid equipment, bottled water, food, a torch (in case you lose power), an emergency contacts sheet, prescribed medication, blankets, clothing, insurance documents and money. If you have infants or elderly people in your household, you should also pack any special items they may need.”
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have warned communities to stay vigilant as the weekend of severe weather continues across Sunday evening and into Monday morning.
Multiple Flood Warnings and Alerts are in place across Scotland, with the focus remaining on the Spey and Tay catchments.
While local Flood Warnings in some areas of Scotland may start coming off over the evening as rivers fall, others will stay in force as some waters continue to rise and the agency continues to warn of likely impacts as communities count the cost of the weekend’s flood damage.
Ruth Ellis, SEPA’s Flood Duty Manager, said: “Today the focus turned to communities across the North, with a particular concern for severe flood impacts to communities along the Spey and Tay rivers.I want to be clear that communities in these areas should stay alert over the evening as some rivers will continue to rise over the course of the evening. The risk to life remains.
“It’s been a difficult weekend across Scotland, with severe weather causing widespread travel disruption to road and rail networks and impacts in communities all over Scotland. Across many areas of the country there is still some deep standing water and it’s really important people understand the danger.
“Hazards can be hidden, so please don’t walk or drive into flood water. Remember that not only is flood water likely to be dirty, 30 cm of fast flowing water can move an average family sized car, and just 15 cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet.
“Our teams have been working around the clock with partner agencies, including Scottish Government, the Met Office, emergency services and local authorities across this major weather event. We will continue to provide information and support in the coming days and weeks to ensure Scotland recovers from this event and becomes more resilient to future flooding.
“We’ll be continuing to issue further updates across the evening to communities across northern Scotland and our advice remains for people to keep up to date with information from sepa.org.uk and follow guidance from emergency services.”
Update 9am, Sun 8th Oct – Flooding focus turns north as SEPA warn communities to stay alert
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have warned communities to stay vigilant as the weekend of severe weather continues across Sunday.
Multiple Flood Warnings and Alerts are in place across Scotland as the agency continues to warn of likely impacts on Sunday and communities count the cost of Saturday’s flood damage.
Vincent Fitzsimons, SEPA’s Flood Duty Manager, said: “It’s been a rough weekend across Scotland, with severe weather causing widespread travel disruption to road and rail networks and impacts in communities from Greenock to Aviemore.
“Our teams have been working around the clock with Scottish Government and the Met Office in the lead into and across this major weather event. We have been issuing Alerts and Warnings to communities at risk and supporting first responders.
“Today the focus continues to turn to communities across the North, with a particular concern for severe flood impacts to communities along the Spey and Tay rivers. It’s a day to stay alert, not stand down. The risk to life remains.
“We’ll be issuing further updates across the day to communities across northern Scotland and our advice remains for people to keep up to date with information from sepa.org.uk and follow guidance from emergency services.”
People are being urged to avoid travel by road in Argyll and Bute and to consider carefully travel in other areas most impacted by the weekend’s severe rainfall.
SEPA has indicated up to a month’s worth of rain could fall in some areas over the course of the weekend. Rainfall is causing significant disruption in parts of Scotland, including road closures and rail service cancellations.
https://twitter.com/i/status/1710746869255520617
On Saturday afternoon the Met Office issued an Amber Warning for rain extending across Angus, Perth and Kinross, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highland until 2pm on Sunday.
In Argyll and Bute, the Local Resilience Partnership has established a Care for People Sub-Group, led by the local Health and Social Care Partnership, which is working to identify and reach vulnerable people that may be difficult to reach, with assistance from the voluntary sector. Argyll and Bute Council is assisting by contacting community groups in affected areas with a view to initiating local support, such as opening up community halls.
On Friday the Met Office issued an amber warning for rain, covering Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, North Lanarkshire, East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Lochaber, parts of Stirling, Perthshire, Aberdeenshire and the Highlands. It is in place until 6 am on Sunday. Yellow warnings for rain remain in place for other large parts the country and are updated on the Met Office website.
The greatest impacts earlier on Saturday were experienced in Inverclyde, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, North Lanarkshire, East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Lochaber, parts of Stirling, Perthshire, Aberdeenshire and the Highlands. In Argyll and Bute, several roads have been closed due to flooding and landslides, including:
the A83 between Tarbet and Inverary
the A815 between Dunoon and the A83
the A816 between Lochgiphead and Oban
the A85 at Loch Awe
Road operating companies are assisting Police Scotland with the closures and clear up operations, however due to the continuing rainfall it will not be possible to make an assessment of the landslides or undertake clear up operations until conditions improve.
Network Rail has reported many incidents of severe flooding across the network, resulting in widespread cancellations to services. This includes suspension of services between Inverness and Perth. Services running across the whole ScotRail network have been cancelled, delayed or revised.
On Saturday afternoon Justice Secretary and Minister for Resilience Angela Constance chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Committee (SGoRR), which was attended by First Minister Humza Yousaf, Transport Secretary Màiri McAllan, Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop and key responder agencies.
They discussed the immediate response to the local impacts, as well as further actions being taken to support those communities most affected.
Ms Constance said: “As the weather warnings outline, heavy rainfall is expected to continue in many parts of the country into Sunday and some areas will have a month’s worth of rain over the course of the weekend.
“I would urge everyone across the country to heed the travel warnings being issued by Police Scotland and others – in particular, drivers in Argyll and Bute should avoid travel due to the significant disruption across the road network.
“We are aware that the initial, most severe impacts have been felt by people and businesses in Argyll and Bute, as well as other areas in the west and north of the country.
“Ministers are receiving regular updates on the situation from partners, including SEPA, the Met Office, and Police Scotland as it unfolds. This afternoon I convened SGoRR in recognition of the severity of the situation which will continue to develop over the next 24 hours.
“I am grateful for the efforts of partners and volunteers to help the public stay safe and where possible to restore services.
“Anyone seeking live updates should follow these partners organisations on social media, and can also consult the Ready Scotland website for general advice.”
Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs said: “Officers have been dealing with significant disruption on the roads caused by the heavy rainfall and we would expect this to continue into Sunday.
“It is important that we do everything we can to keep people safe and officers are out in communities helping those who need us.
“Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary or if it can be delayed until conditions improve. If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions and take extra time for your journey.”
Vincent Fitzsimons, Flood Duty Manager for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said yesterday: “SEPA has issued Regional Flood Alerts and more locally specific Flood Warnings across Scotland due to the major rainfall event that is bringing prolonged, heavy rain throughout the day and into Sunday.
“I want to be very clear that this is not a normal Autumn day for Scotland. We’re expecting extensive river and surface water flooding in affected areas. There is a danger to life. There will be widespread impacts to road and rail. There is a risk of more significant community scale property flooding.
“Rain will move across central and western parts this morning, moving northwards through the day. Many areas will see heavy rain for well over 24hrs before it clears on Sunday. Of particular concern are communities in the amber area that extends from west central Scotland northwards.
“Further Local Flood Warnings are likely to be issued, people can always check our Flood Updates for all the latest information. We advise people living, working and travelling in the affected areas to consider any steps they need to take now to be prepared for flooding impacts and consider whether their journey is necessary.”
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) issues flood alerts and warnings for Scotland. View the latest updates on their website.
Vincent Fitzsimons, Flood Duty Manager for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “Scotland is experiencing a major rainfall event that is bringing prolonged, heavy rain throughout the day and well into Sunday.
“I want to be very clear that this is not a normal Autumn weekend for Scotland. We’re expecting extensive river and surface water flooding in affected areas. There is a danger to life. There are widespread impacts to road and rail. There is a risk of more significant community scale property flooding.
“Heavy rain has been falling since Friday night in many areas and will continue in northern Scotland throughout Saturday evening and well into Sunday. Some areas will have seen more than a month’s rain by the end of the weekend.
“Of particular concern are communities in the Met Office amber weather warning area that extends across much of northern Scotland. Examples include Aviemore and communities down the Spey Valley, but many more communities are also at risk. SEPA has been working closely with partners to help them target support for these areas.
”People should check our live Flood Updates for all the latest information. We advise people living, working and travelling in the affected areas to consider any steps they need to take now to be prepared for flooding impacts and consider whether their journey is necessary.
“We will continue to keep a very close eye on the situation, monitoring 24/7 as well as working closely with the Met Office and other partner agencies.
“We would strongly advise people to sign up to Floodline to receive free updates and heed emergency service and local authority advice.
NFU Mutual is issuing flood advice as the Met Office issues an amber warning for heavy rain across many Scottish communities.
Up to 180mm of rain could fall throughout Saturday and into Sunday, with Grampian, Central, Tayside, Fife, Strathclyde and the Highlands all in danger of disruptive and dangerous downpours and flooding.
Heavy rain could lead to flash flooding with fast moving water, cutting off transport routes, and leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging home and business owners in Scotland to fortify their properties if possible but make safety their priority.
If they are affected by flooding, people should look at how they can work with their insurer to repair their property to be more resilient to flooding in the future.
Andrew Chalk, home insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said:“Time and again we’ve seen how destructive and disruptive flash flooding can be for communities, and NFU Mutual Agents in Scotland stand ready to rapidly assist people impacted by these predicted downpours – including facilitating rapid payments for smaller claims and mobilising our network of loss adjusters and repairers.
“But the best way to avoid disruption, if possible, is to take some sensible steps provided by NFU Mutual to protect your property. If you have flood defences, activate them now, move valuable possessions and electrical items to higher ground and prepare a flood or extreme weather pack.
“Have your insurer’s details to hand and if you are impacted by flooding, be sure to ask your insurer and loss adjuster about flood resilient repairs. Since 2017, NFU Mutual has offered its Flood Resilient Repair scheme to all home insurance customers. As part of the scheme, customers who suffer flood damage above £10,000 receive a contribution from NFU Mutual to implement repairs which will protect the property from future flooding.
“According to NFU Mutual claims data, the average damage to a home caused by floods in 2022 was £20,706. A flood resilient home, using things like non-return valves, tiling, and resilient materials on lower floors can massively reduce this bill, and many resilient repairs will cost no more than like-for-like repairs.
“With more insurers also now offering flood resilient repairs under the Government-backed Build Back Better scheme, it is worth checking if you can access extra help if you suffer a flood.”
NFU Mutual flood advice
NFU Mutual’s flood preparedness checklist:
Check if your property is at risk of flooding on the Government website.
Sign up for flood alerts on the Government website – these can be sent by text, email or delivered by phone call.
Put a flood plan in place, including:
Moving valuables – including electric items – to a safe space
Thinking about vulnerable members of your household and neighbours
Noting down useful numbers like gas and electricity suppliers, the National Grid, local council and insurer
Ensuring you know how to switch off your mains electricity and gas supply
Consider procuring sandbags or other flood defence systems
Prepare a flood or storm back, including:
Bottled water and snacks
Food for vulnerable household members like babies, children, and elderly relatives
Pet food
Torches with charged batteries
Mobile phone power banks and chargers
What to do if your home is flooded:
Make safety your priority. Keep your family and pets away from the flood water and move to another part of the property.
Call your insurer immediately, asking about alternative accommodation if your property is unsafe.
Contact family and friends.
If you can, switch off mains gas and electricity supplies in the affected area.
Have a pack with essential items like prescriptions, other medicines and food, paying particular attention to items like baby food.
Have a torch and charged mobile phone on hand in case of power cuts.
When it’s safe to enter the flooded area again, catalogue all damaged items for insurance claims and begin clearing and drying out the area, seeking advice from your insurance company.
Business owners should remain in contact with employees and customers.
NFU Mutual’s flood resilient repairs checklist
Flood resilient repairs are repairs carried out following flood damage which help prevent extensive damage in any subsequent flood. Some may come with additional cost, but many will cost no more than restoration. Resilient repairs to ask your loss adjuster or insurer about include:
Raising electrical sockets and white goods away from floor level.
Replacing flooring with waterproof tiling and grout.
Waterproof paint.
Installing flood-resistant, self-sealing air bricks.
Fitting non-return valves to drains to prevent backflow flooding.
Replacing doors with waterproof doors to prevent floodwater spreading.
Fitting flood barriers to doors or air brick covers.
Permeable paving or driveways.
Inflatable toilet pan seals or bungs to prevent backflow.
uPVC skirting boards and kitchen units.
Removable doors.
Basement tanking or pump systems (integrated or portable).
Homeowners and businesses need to be prepared as Storm Agnes approaches. But be assured that, should you suffer any storm damage, insurers will do everything they can to help you recover as quickly as possible.
Damage caused by storms is covered by standard home insurance, commercial business policies, and comprehensive motor insurance.
Mark Shepherd, Head of General Insurance Policy at the Association of British Insurers said: “Insurers expect bad weather at any time and their priority is always to help their affected customers recover as quickly as possible.
“Where properties are damaged by floods or storms, insurers will be on hand to make emergency payments, arrange any temporary emergency accommodation, and make sure the damage is repaired.
“If you suffer damage to your property, contact your insurer as soon as you can for help and advice.”
The ABI advises people to:
· Keep a close eye on weather warnings, and follow advice from The Met Office, The Environment Agency, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Natural Resources Wales and the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland.
· Where possible, store items left in gardens that can easily be blown away and cause damage, like ladders, inside, or ensure they are secure.
· Have contact details of your home insurer to hand, along with other emergency contact numbers for your utility providers and the local authority.
If you suffer storm damage:
· Contact your insurer as soon as possible. Most will have 24-hour emergency helplines to ensure you get advice on what to do and arrange repairs as quickly as is possible.
· If necessary, arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse, but speak to your insurer first. If you have to arrange emergency repairs yourself, tell your insurer and keep any receipts, as this will form part of your claim.
· Do not be in a rush to throw away damaged items, unless they are a danger to health, as these may be able to be repaired or restored. Your insurer will advise.
If your home is uninhabitable while repairs are being carried out, your insurer will arrange for, and pay the cost of, any alternative temporary accommodation you may need in line with your policy.
Commercial polices will cover damage to premises and stock. Business interruption cover (which may be included or purchased separately) will cover additional trading costs, such as hiring temporary alternative trading premises if necessary.
Comprehensive motor insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing vehicles damaged by storms.
In an era marked by evolving community dynamics and changing societal needs, village and community halls across The Lothians have developed into central hubs for an ever-growing variety of activities.
In addition to the traditional group meetings, toddler groups and pantomimes, these spaces now foster the growth of small enterprises, facilitate community engagement, and house community businesses, such as post offices, cafes, and libraries.
However, the threat to their continued success lies in the balance as the addition of activities and changes in purpose bring new risks that may invalidate their insurance coverage.
Ansvar, the expert insurers for the charity and not-for-profit sectors, are urging centre committees to verify the adequacy of their existing protective coverage to guarantee the protection of these venues for future use.
There are approximately 3,000 centres[1] across Scotland that host thousands of events and celebrations every year. With some of these halls and centres being built before World War I or to commemorate it, many have been vital community spaces for over 100 years.
The varying usage agreements and quality of provisions and building materials differ considerably across the country. As such, they can face various risks, from accidental damage and fire hazards to potential liability claims.
Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, emphasises the importance: “Village and community halls are no longer limited to being mere event venues; they have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of everyday life.
“From hosting yoga classes and farmers’ markets to providing space for personal trainers, art workshops and post offices, these halls have become the lifeblood of community interaction. This evolution has created vibrant ecosystems where entrepreneurs can thrive, neighbours can connect, and shared resources can flourish.
“Indeed, by acting as vaccination centres during the Covid-19 pandemic and, due to the current cost of living crisis, as places families can go to receive emergency food provision, their importance to a community has been reaffirmed. The transformation of village and community halls into multi-purpose hubs is a heartwarming reflection of communities adapting to changing times. However, this also calls for a reassessment of the protective measures in place.”
Due to recent inflationary pressures and the rapid increase in the cost of materials, a significant number of village halls and community centres will now be underinsured.
Adam Tier added: “Being underinsured can have devastating consequences in the event of a large loss or significant damage to these buildings, where policyholders are forced to find the shortfall to reinstate the property.
“These delays in getting back up and running, or in severe cases back open at all, can leave a big hole in the local community. Therefore, it is imperative that a buildings valuation is regularly updated and contents and other items are frequently inventoried.
“We understand the immense value community halls hold and want to ensure they are protected. Without adequate coverage, these community spaces and the clubs and local businesses they support can face significant financial strain or even closure.
“Working with a specialist insurer will ensure that the essence of what makes these community spaces thrive is preserved. They will understand the unique challenges community-driven initiatives face and provide tailored coverage to address those needs, ensuring peace of mind for community organisers and members.”
