Great Waldingfield Crime Rate

Great Waldingfield’s crime rate of 44.2 per 1,000 is 51% below the UK average, but public order crimes have surged by 350% YoY, the fastest-rising category. This sharp increase in public order issues contrasts with the area’s otherwise low crime profile, highlighting a unique challenge in a typically safe community.

Great Waldingfield is a small, built-up area within Babergh, characterised by its rural setting and low population density. Its relatively isolated location and limited commercial activity likely contribute to its low crime rates. The area’s tight-knit community and proximity to natural landscapes may foster a sense of safety, though public order incidents suggest occasional challenges in managing local gatherings or events.

The most surprising finding is that public order crimes are 15% above the UK average (7.2 vs 6.3 per 1,000), despite the area’s overall safety. This could reflect local events or social gatherings that temporarily elevate public order issues. Violence and sexual offences, while rising by 11% YoY, remain 22% below the UK average, possibly due to the area’s low population density reducing opportunities for such crimes. Criminal damage and arson, though rising by 200% YoY, remain 27% below the UK average, likely linked to limited commercial infrastructure. Vehicle crime, up by 100% YoY but still 65% below the UK average, may be influenced by sparse parking areas or infrequent vehicle presence.

Crime in Great Waldingfield has remained stable (-1.8% YoY), but public order crimes have surged by 350% YoY. This sharp increase, from 1.6 to 7.2 per 1,000, is the most significant trend. Monthly data shows a peak in July 2025 (6.4 per 1,000) and a dip in May 2025 (0.8 per 1,000), suggesting seasonal influences. The rise in public order crimes may correlate with summer events or increased social activity, while other categories like vehicle crime and burglary have risen but remain well below the UK average.

How To Keep Safe in Great Waldingfield

Given the 350% YoY rise in public order crimes, consider monitoring local event schedules and staying informed about gatherings. For vehicle crime, which has risen by 100% YoY, ensure cars are locked and parked in well-lit areas. Burglary, though low (2.4 per 1,000), remains 27% below the UK average. Secure homes during the afternoon and evening when burglary rates are highest.

Crime in Great Waldingfield peaks during the afternoon and evening, with burglary concentrated between 12pm–6pm and 6pm–12am. This aligns with patterns where unoccupied homes or businesses may be targeted during these hours. Vehicle crime spikes overnight (12am–6am), potentially linked to isolated parking areas or late-night activity. Theft and anti-social behaviour are more common during the day, reflecting local shopping patterns or community interactions.

Great Waldingfield’s crime rate (44.2 per 1,000) is 27% higher than Acton (34.7 per 1,000) but 74% lower than Sudbury (77.1 per 1,000). This disparity may reflect Sudbury’s higher population density and commercial activity, while Acton’s lower rate could be due to better infrastructure or community engagement.

For areas with public order crimes 15% above the UK average, scOS’s proactive boundary detection and autonomous deterrence are ideal. Its AI identifies threats before incidents occur, and automated lighting disrupts intruders. Given Great Waldingfield’s rising vehicle crime, scOS’s DVLA vehicle registration verification could flag suspicious vehicles, aligning with the area’s need for targeted security without excessive intrusion.