Southwick (Adur) Crime Rate

Southwick (Adur) Crime Overview

Southwick, an urban settlement within the Adur district, has an overall crime rate of 71.5 per 1,000 residents. This figure is significantly lower than the UK average of 93.1, contributing to a high safety score of 84/100. The local crime trend is currently stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 2.4%. For a population of approximately 12,600, these statistics represent a secure living environment relative to many other urban areas in the UK. This analysis explores the specific types of crime prevalent in Southwick, when they are most likely to occur, and how residents can best protect themselves and their property.

Crime Breakdown in Southwick (Adur)

In Southwick, the most frequent crime reports involve violence and sexual offences, which account for 33.7% of the total (24.1 per 1,000 residents). This is followed by anti-social behaviour at 14.4% and criminal damage and arson at 9.2%. These figures suggest that interpersonal issues and social nuisances are the primary drivers of the local crime rate.

Property crime in Southwick, which includes burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offences, occurs at a rate of 26.7 per 1,000 people. This is lower than the UK average of 32.9. Within this category, shoplifting and 'other theft' are notable, while burglary accounts for 4.9% of total crimes (3.5 per 1,000). Vehicle crime is also a factor, representing 5.7% of incidents. For local residents, this data indicates a moderate level of opportunistic property crime, emphasizing the importance of securing vehicles and outbuildings as well as the main home.

Southwick (Adur) Crime Trends

The crime trend in Southwick is stable, with a modest 2.4% decrease in total offences compared to the previous year. Monthly data shows that the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated between a low of 3.9 and a high of 7.1.

Significant peaks were observed in January and April 2025, both recording a rate of 7.1 per 1,000. These were followed by a relatively steady period throughout the summer, with rates hovering around 6.2 to 6.7. The most notable dip occurred in December 2024, where the rate fell to 3.9, suggesting a quieter end to the year. The overall trend indicates that Southwick is maintaining its safety levels, with no sharp increases in criminal activity, providing a predictable environment for its residents.

How To Keep Safe in Southwick (Adur)

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime types in Southwick. While many of these incidents involve known individuals, general personal safety remains a priority for the community.

• Night-time Vehicle Security: Vehicle crime is highest at night in Southwick. Always park in well-lit areas, ensure all windows are fully closed, and never leave valuables—even small change—visible inside the car.
• Secure Your Boundaries: Criminal damage is a notable factor locally. Ensuring your property has clear boundaries, such as well-maintained fencing and gated side access, can deter opportunistic vandalism.
• Afternoon Vigilance: Theft and burglary see a rise during the afternoon hours. If you are away from home during the day, use light timers or smart home devices to create the appearance of occupancy.
• Community Reporting: If you witness anti-social behaviour, which accounts for over 14% of local crime, report it to the local police. Consistent reporting helps authorities identify and address hotspots in the Southwick area.

Southwick Crime Time Patterns

Crime in Southwick follows distinct patterns throughout the day. The morning hours (6am-12pm) are relatively quiet but see a high proportion of theft-related offences (38%) as commercial activity begins. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) is the peak time for burglary, accounting for 22% of incidents in that period, often targeting unoccupied homes.

As evening approaches (6pm-12am), 'other' crimes, including anti-social behaviour and public order offences, become the dominant factor, making up 51% of reports. The night-time period (12am-6am) presents a specific risk for vehicle owners; vehicle crime accounts for a significant 40% of all incidents during these early hours. This suggests that while Southwick is generally safe, property and vehicle owners should be particularly vigilant during the late afternoon and overnight periods.

Regional Comparison

Within the local area, Southwick compares favourably to its immediate neighbours. Its crime rate of 71.5 per 1,000 is lower than both Shoreham-by-Sea (74.2) and Lancing and Sompting (76.1). While it is significantly higher than the very low rate found in the rural village of Upper Beeding (26.9) or Fulking (0.0), Southwick remains a safe choice for those seeking an urban settlement with a lower-than-average crime profile. This positioning makes it one of the more secure built-up areas in the West Sussex coastal region, offering a good balance between urban amenities and residential safety.

Proactive Protection in Southwick

With a property crime rate of 26.7 per 1,000, Southwick homeowners face a moderate risk of opportunistic theft and vehicle crime. Traditional security systems, while common, often only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. For those seeking to prevent crime entirely, a shift to proactive technology is necessary.

scOS is an AI-powered operating system designed to stop threats before they reach your door. By monitoring multiple cameras simultaneously, it identifies suspicious activity at the property boundary. In Southwick, where vehicle crime is particularly prevalent at night (40% of night-time incidents), scOS’s ability to verify vehicle plates and detect unauthorised movement is invaluable. The system doesn't just record; it intervenes autonomously by activating lights or audio warnings to deter intruders. This proactive approach turns your security from a witness into a guardian, making your home a significantly harder target for burglars and thieves who rely on stealth and speed.