Barking and Dagenham Crime Rate

Understanding Crime in Barking and Dagenham

Barking and Dagenham records an overall crime rate of 105.2 per 1,000 residents annually, indicating a slightly higher incidence of crime compared to the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 75 out of 100, which is respectable, though marginally below the UK average safety score of 78. This suggests a relatively stable environment, with crime rates showing a marginal 2.6% increase year-over-year. These figures provide a foundation for understanding the local crime landscape, offering context for residents and those considering the area.

About Barking and Dagenham

Barking and Dagenham, an East London borough, is characterised by its diverse mix of residential communities, historical market towns, and evolving commercial hubs. The area benefits from significant transport links, including the A13 and District Line, which facilitate connectivity but can also contribute to a transient population flow, potentially influencing crime statistics. While largely suburban in feel, the borough has undergone regeneration, attracting new businesses and residents. These developments, alongside existing industrial zones and local amenities, create varied environments that can impact crime patterns, from property-related offences in residential areas to public order incidents in commercial centres.

Crime Type Analysis in Barking and Dagenham

An analysis of crime types in Barking and Dagenham reveals that Violence and sexual offences constitute the most significant category, accounting for 32.3% of all reported crimes, with a rate of 34.0 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most prevalent issue at 18.1% (19.0 per 1,000), followed by Vehicle crime, which makes up 8.7% of total incidents (9.2 per 1,000).

Property-related crime in Barking and Dagenham is a notable concern, with a combined rate of 38.5 per 1,000 residents. This encompasses categories such as burglary (3.9 per 1,000), other theft (6.8 per 1,000), robbery (3.9 per 1,000), theft from the person (3.3 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (5.6 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.5 per 1,000), and vehicle crime (9.2 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures highlight the importance of securing personal property and vehicles, as these offences represent a considerable portion of local criminal activity.

Crime Trends in Barking and Dagenham

Barking and Dagenham has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a minor 2.6% increase in total crimes compared to the previous 12-month period. Reviewing the monthly trend data shows fluctuations in the crime rate per 1,000 residents. In late 2024, rates were around 9.6 in October and 9.1 in November, dipping to 8.1 in December and reaching a low of 7.1 in February 2025. Subsequently, there was a gradual rise, peaking at 9.8 in July 2025, before settling slightly to 8.7 by September 2025. This pattern suggests a seasonal influence, with crime rates generally lower in the colder winter months and increasing into the spring and summer. For residents, this stable trend indicates that the overall crime environment has not seen significant shifts, but awareness of seasonal variations remains prudent.

Comparing Barking and Dagenham to Nearby Areas

To provide regional context, it is useful to compare Barking and Dagenham with its neighbouring boroughs. Redbridge, Newham, Havering, Bexley, Greenwich, and Waltham Forest all form part of the East London and Thames Gateway area. Each of these areas presents its own crime profile influenced by demographics, urbanisation, and economic activity. For instance, more central boroughs like Newham might experience higher rates of certain crime types due to greater commercial activity and transport hubs, while greener, more suburban areas like Bexley might have different challenges. Understanding these regional variations helps residents and prospective movers appreciate how Barking and Dagenham's crime rate and safety score fit into the broader local landscape.

Protecting Your Property in Barking and Dagenham

Given Barking and Dagenham's property crime rate of 38.5 per 1,000 residents, proactive home security measures are highly advisable. While traditional CCTV systems merely record incidents after they occur, an advanced approach focuses on preventing crime before it happens. Consider adopting solutions that offer proactive protection, detecting threats at your property boundary rather than just documenting a break-in.

The right security system can make a crucial difference, turning away potential intruders who often decide within 60 seconds whether to proceed. Systems that use AI-powered multi-camera intelligence to watch all areas simultaneously, learn your routines, and only alert on real threats, provide a significant advantage. Features like DVLA vehicle verification and autonomous responses (such as activating lights or engaging speakers) can destroy the element of surprise for criminals, making your property a less appealing target. While DIY systems have their place, professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, offering peace of mind by actively deterring crime rather than simply reacting to it.