Fear of yobs is Britains biggest fear by far

Britons are more than twice as likely to worry about anti-social behaviour than any other crime, a new report shows.

Almost one in four (23%) identified anti-social behaviour as their utmost safety concern. Of these 75% believe that the problem is on the increase, 46% have witnessed crime first hand and 16% consider they are a victim of crime.

Moreover, the fear of anti-social behaviour is common across the generations. Young people aged 18 to 29 (22%), parents with children living at home (21%) and retired people (22%) are all equally concerned about anti-social behaviour.

Over half (56%) of those surveyed have worried about crime in the last three months, almost half (47%) believing that anti-social behaviour is on the increase, and more than a third (37%) believing that crime in general is increasing.

Elaine Parkes, technical services manager at Legal & General said: "This research indicates a high level of apprehension across the UK population towards crime and personal safety, despite of the introduction of ASBOs and increased levels of policing."


"Advice on how to reduce the possible risk of crime and improve personal safety is available on the government crime reduction website and schemes such as Neighbourhood Watch, Crimestoppers and the government’s new crime helpline."


1 Anti-social behaviour in my area / yob culture 23%

2 Identity theft / fraud 9%

3 Personal safety as a result of violent crime 6%

4 Vandalism to my car 5%

5= Vandalism/graffiti in my neighbourhood 3%

5= Burglary 3%

8= Vandalism to my property 2%

8= Having bags stolen when out and about / pick pockets 2%

9= Car theft 1%

9= Crime abroad/whilst on holiday 1%