Employee theft is a growing concern for businesses across the United Kingdom. As the economic landscape becomes increasingly challenging, incidents of theft within the workplace appear to be on the rise. This trend poses significant threats to businesses, not just in terms of financial loss, but also in terms of trust and workplace morale.
One of the most effective tools available to employers to combat this issue is the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Let’s look into the current state of employee theft in the UK, exploring its causes, implications and how DBS checks can play a pivotal role in mitigating this risk.
The Current State of Employee Theft in the UK
The Statistics
Recent reports indicate that employee theft is an escalating issue in the UK. According to a study by Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre, there has been a notable increase in the number of reported incidents of workplace theft over the past few years. In 2022 alone, businesses reported losses amounting to millions of pounds due to internal theft.
The British Retail Consortium (BRC) also highlighted that theft by employees remains a significant portion of the total theft-related losses in the retail sector. This trend is not limited to retail; sectors such as healthcare, finance, and hospitality are also witnessing a rise in incidents of internal theft.
The Impact
The consequences of employee theft extend far beyond immediate financial losses. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), even a single incident of theft can be crippling. It can lead to increased costs associated with security measures, insurance premiums and, in some cases, legal fees. Moreover, the trust between employers and employees can be severely damaged, leading to a toxic workplace environment and reduced productivity.
Causes of Rising Employee Thefts
Several factors contribute to the increase in employee theft. Understanding these can help businesses develop more effective strategies to prevent such incidents.
Economic Pressures
The current economic climate, marked by inflation and economic uncertainty, is a significant driver of employee theft. Financial stress can lead employees to rationalise theft as a necessary means of survival.
Lack of Adequate Security Measures
Many businesses, especially SMEs, lack robust security measures to detect and prevent theft. Inadequate surveillance, poor inventory control and lack of regular audits create opportunities for theft to go unnoticed.
Insufficient Pre-employment Screening
A critical factor contributing to employee theft is the lack of thorough background checks during the hiring process. Without comprehensive screening, businesses may inadvertently hire individuals with a history of theft or fraudulent behaviour.
The Role of DBS Checks in Combating Employee Theft
Understanding DBS Checks
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a crucial tool for employers in the UK. It helps in the screening of potential employees by providing information about an individual’s criminal record. There are several types of DBS checks:
Basic DBS Check: This provides details of unspent convictions.
Standard DBS Check: This includes information on spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings.
Enhanced DBS Check: This is the most detailed check, providing information on spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, warnings and any additional information held by local police that is considered relevant to the role applied for.
Enhanced with Barred List Checks: This includes all the information in the enhanced check plus a check of the DBS barred lists.
Importance of DBS Checks
By identifying individuals with a history of theft or fraud, DBS checks help prevent repeat offenders from gaining employment in positions where they could commit similar crimes.
Ensuring a Safe Work Environment: Conducting DBS checks ensures that employees do not pose a risk to their colleagues or the business. This is particularly crucial in sectors like healthcare and finance where the stakes are high.
Building Trust: Employers who conduct thorough DBS checks signal to their workforce and clients that they are committed to maintaining a trustworthy and safe work environment. This can enhance the company’s reputation and employee morale.
Implementing Effective DBS Checks
For DBS checks to be effective, businesses need to integrate them seamlessly into their hiring process. Here are some best practices:
Consistency in Screening
All potential employees, regardless of the level of the position, should undergo appropriate DBS checks. This helps in maintaining consistency and fairness in the recruitment process.
Regular Reviews
DBS checks should not be a one-time process. Regular reviews and re-checks, especially for employees in sensitive positions, can help in maintaining ongoing security.
Educating Employees
Businesses, from e-commerce companies like Funky Socks to builders like Balfour Beatty and everything inbetween, should educate their employees about the importance of DBS checks and how they contribute to a safer workplace. Transparency in the process can reduce any apprehensions and foster a culture of trust.
Utilising Technology
Leveraging advanced technology can streamline the DBS checking process. Online platforms and integration with HR systems, like what Online DBS Checks offers, can make it easier to conduct and track checks, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
Other Employee Theft Prevention Strategies
Implementing Strong Internal Controls
Robust internal controls such as regular audits, inventory checks and surveillance can deter potential theft. Clear policies regarding access to sensitive areas and information should be established and enforced.
Fostering a Positive Work Culture
A positive and inclusive work culture where employees feel valued and respected can reduce the likelihood of theft. Employees who feel a strong sense of loyalty and engagement with their employer are less likely to commit theft.
Whistleblower Policies
Encouraging a culture where employees can report suspicious activities without fear of retaliation is crucial. Whistleblower policies and anonymous reporting channels can be effective in uncovering theft and fraud.
Comprehensive Training Programs
Training employees on ethical behaviour, the consequences of theft, and how to recognise and report suspicious activities can empower them to act as the first line of defence against internal theft.
Concluding Thoughts
Employee theft is a growing challenge for businesses in the UK, exacerbated by economic pressures and often inadequate preventive measures. However, by incorporating robust DBS checks into their hiring processes, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of hiring individuals with a propensity for theft. This, combined with strong internal controls, a positive work culture and comprehensive employee training, can help create a safer and more trustworthy workplace.
The rising trend of employee theft highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures. Employers must recognise the critical role that thorough background checks, such as DBS checks, play in safeguarding their businesses from internal threats. By investing in these checks and fostering a culture of integrity and trust, businesses can not only protect their assets but also build a resilient and loyal workforce.
