Doorstep security; using a technology based solution for the prevention of doorstep crime

Abstract

Safety and security rank highly in the priorities of older people on both an individual and policy level. Older people are commonly targeted as victims of doorstep crime, as they can be perceived as being vulnerable. As a result, this can have a major effect on the victim’s health and wellbeing. There have been numerous prevention strategies implemented in an attempt to combat and reduce the number of doorstep crimes. There is, however, little information available detailing the effectiveness of these strategies and how they impact on the fear of crime, particularly with repeat victims. There is clear merit in the creation and piloting of a technology based solution to combat doorstep crime. This paper presents a solution which utilizes everyday technology to provide increased security for older people within their home whilst simultaneously reinforcing doorstep etiquette through educational material.