The Impact of CCTV on Crime in the UK – Does It Really Work?

When you look at the evidence, the answer is yes — when CCTV is installed and used correctly. But the way it’s designed, positioned, and managed makes a huge difference to how effective it really is.

This guide looks at the real impact of CCTV on crime in the UK, what the research says, and where CCTV works best in practice.

Multiple UK studies show that CCTV can reduce crime, particularly:

• vehicle-related crime

• theft from shops

• vandalism

• anti-social behaviour

• unauthorised access

CCTV works best as a deterrent — people are less likely to offend when they believe they will be identified.

However, CCTV is most effective when it’s:

• clearly visible

• well-positioned

• supported by good lighting

• monitored or regularly checked

This is why professionally designed systems outperform poorly placed DIY cameras.

UK police-backed research and academic studies consistently show that CCTV:

• reduces vehicle crime in car parks

• lowers shoplifting in retail environments

• helps identify suspects faster

• supports prosecutions with usable evidence

The College of Policing and Secured by Design both highlight CCTV as part of a wider crime prevention strategy — especially when combined with access control, lighting, and good site design.

CCTV is not a silver bullet, but it is a proven part of effective crime reduction when used properly.

Shops using CCTV typically see:

• reduced shoplifting

• fewer disputes

• improved staff confidence

This is especially true when cameras are positioned over:

• entrances/exits

• tills

• high-risk aisles

If you run a shop or business, see our CCTV installation service for systems designed around real-world risks.

Car parks with CCTV experience:

• fewer thefts from vehicles

• fewer vehicle break-ins

• improved user safety

Cameras with good lighting and clear signage are key here.

Homes with visible CCTV are often:

• less attractive to opportunistic burglars

• less likely to be targeted repeatedly

However, coverage must include:

• entry points

• side access routes

• driveways and rear gardens

Doorbell cameras alone don’t always cover these areas.

Even when CCTV doesn’t stop an incident entirely, it still provides:

• time-stamped footage

• clear identification

• reliable evidence for police

• protection against false claims

Professionally installed systems are far more likely to produce footage that is usable, not just viewable.

This is where image quality, camera angles, and recording reliability really matter.

Standard CCTV records incidents after they happen.

When combined with 24/7 CCTV monitoring, systems can:

• trigger real-time responses

• issue audio warnings

• escalate incidents quickly

• reduce damage and loss

This active approach significantly increases CCTV’s effectiveness as a crime prevention tool.

👉 Learn more about 24/7 CCTV monitoring and response.

This is a common concern.

Research suggests that while some offenders may move on, many crimes are prevented entirely, particularly opportunistic offences where criminals choose easier targets.

In short:

Criminals prefer properties without visible security.

To maintain public trust and remain compliant, CCTV must be used responsibly.

This includes:

• clear signage

• appropriate camera positioning

• sensible retention periods

• respecting privacy

For a full breakdown, see our guide to CCTV laws in the UK.

CCTV is most effective when combined with:

• good lighting

• secure doors and locks

• access control

• alarm systems

• regular maintenance

Poorly maintained or badly positioned cameras quickly lose their value.

Our CCTV maintenance services help ensure systems stay reliable long-term.

If you want CCTV that actually reduces risk — not just records incidents — professional design and setup matter.