Low Cost Interventions
3. Home Security Technology
Smart alarms, CCTV, motion sensors, smart locks, and integrated apps that allow users to monitor and control their home environment remotely. These systems can alert users/authorities to intrusions, provide evidence, and deter perpetrators. Useful in supporting evidence collection, improving victim confidence/authority, detering domestic abuse and stalking, and reducing repeat victimisation.
Basic DIY hardware systems: £150-£400
Professionally installed smart systems: £600-£1500
Installation: £0-£100 (or more dpeending on system complexity)
Monitoring services: £8-£50 per month
Smart integration (apps, cloud storage, automation): £50-£200 for setup and configuration
Total: £150-£2000
Assessment & planning: 1-2 weeks
Procurement and confirguration: 1-2 weeks
Installation and testing: 1-2 days
Training & support setup: 1 week (if needed)
Total: 2-6 weeks
Monitoring subscription: £90-£600 per annum
Repairs & servicing: £50-£150 per annum
Software updates & cloud storage: £30-£100 per annum
Annual Maintenance Cost: £170-£850 per household
Lifespan: CCTV systems 5-10 years; Smart alarms & sensors 7-15 years with proper maintenance.
Effectiveness
Highly effective when tailored to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) victim needs, providing physical and psychological safety, particularly from domestic abuse or stalking. However, must be securely configured to prevent misuse. When combined with support services and education, it becomes a powerful tool for prevention/protection. Leads to a 22% reduction in DA incidents. 72% of DA cases involve a technology element, so secure configuration and user control is essential.
Victims with smart security systems are more likely to report abuse early and feel safer remaining in their homes.