Calls to the national Crime Victims helpline this year reflect an increase in burglary, theft and fraud-related crimes, the organisation has reported.
The helpline witnessed a 7 per cent increase in calls in the first quarter of 2012, rising from 783 to 838 in the period.
It said that while the number of burglary-related calls was “not large”, the underlying trend reflected the national crime statistics, which also showd an increase in figures for burglary.
Helpline co-ordinator Maeve Ryan noted recently published national crime statistics, for the first quarter of 2012, showed a reduction in overall crime.
“However, they do show an increase in burglary, theft and fraud. This national trend is being reflected in calls to our helpline. This is a crime which can have serious effects on the people affected.”
Ms Ryan said one of the main effects was the fear people experienced after a break-in, because once it had happened “the fear is that it will happen again”.
“There is also the loss suffered when cash, jewellery and other items are stolen. And
there are many other issues such as repairs to damaged doors and windows, difficulties with insurance claims, the need to upgrade your security, and for many parents the worry about the impact of the crime on their children.”
Ms Ryan urged people who needed help coping with the effects of a burglary or any crime to contact the helpline on the free phone number 116 006. The number for texts is 085 1337711.