The visibility and effectiveness of the police presence in Pagham, Arun, are complex issues to assess. While a direct measure of visibility is difficult to quantify, examining crime rates, safety scores, and response times provides a valuable insight.
Pagham, a built-up area with a population of 1558, exhibits a crime rate of 71.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting that Pagham experiences fewer crimes relative to its population. The area also boasts a strong safety score of 86 out of 100, which is significantly higher than the UK average of 79. This score, while not explicitly defined, likely incorporates factors such as perceived safety and resident satisfaction.
However, the effectiveness of the police presence is also linked to response times. Data from 2024 indicates a mean immediate response time of 16 minutes. While this suggests a relatively prompt reaction to urgent situations, the mean priority response time is considerably longer, at 107 minutes. This extended delay in responding to priority incidents – those requiring a less urgent but still important intervention – could impact the overall perception of police effectiveness and potentially affect crime prevention efforts. It is important to note that 'priority' incidents encompass a wide range of situations, and response times can be influenced by factors beyond police control, such as resource availability and the severity of the incident.
It's crucial to consider that crime statistics and response times represent averages and may not reflect the lived experience of every resident in Pagham. Individual perceptions of safety can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences and local news. Despite the lower crime rate, continued vigilance and community engagement are essential to maintaining a safe environment. Reporting suspicious activity and participating in local safety initiatives can further contribute to a sense of security.