Barnsley Crime Rate

Barnsley has an overall crime rate of 108.3 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the UK average of 91.7. This results in a safety score of 75/100, slightly below the national benchmark of 79/100. However, the data shows a very positive trend, with total crime in Barnsley decreasing by 5.9% year-over-year. This significant reduction suggests that local safety initiatives and policing are having a measurable impact on the borough. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of crime types, monthly patterns, and comparisons with similar areas to help residents and businesses stay informed about the local safety landscape.

Barnsley is a large market town in South Yorkshire, historically known for its coal mining and glassmaking industries. Today, it is a diverse local authority area that includes the main urban centre of Barnsley, several smaller towns, and large rural stretches. The area's demographics are characterized by a strong sense of community, though it faces economic challenges common to former industrial heartlands. Barnsley serves as a regional hub for employment and retail, with the Glass Works development revitalising the town centre. Its location between the major cities of Sheffield, Leeds, and Manchester, with the M1 motorway running through it, makes it a significant transport corridor. These factors—urban density in the centre versus the isolation of rural villages—all contribute to the local crime profile.

In Barnsley, the most frequently reported crimes are violence and sexual offences (35.3%), anti-social behaviour (16.0%), and criminal damage and arson (9.4%). These figures indicate that personal safety and community order are the primary focus of local law enforcement. Property-related crime is also a significant factor, with a combined rate of 36.0 per 1,000 people. This includes 1,475 vehicle crimes, 1,398 burglaries, and 1,743 shoplifting incidents. For residents and homeowners, the prevalence of criminal damage and burglary highlights a need for robust property protection. While the overall crime rate is lower than in some neighbouring major cities, the data shows that opportunistic property crime remains a persistent issue across both urban and rural parts of the borough.

The crime trend in Barnsley is currently decreasing, with a notable 5.9% reduction in total crimes compared to the previous 12-month period. Monthly data from Dec 2024 to Nov 2025 shows that the year started with relatively low rates, dipping to 8.2 per 1,000 in January and February. There was a gradual increase through the spring, peaking in May 2025 at 10.0. The latter half of the year saw a steady decline, with the rate falling back to 8.6 by November. This overall downward trajectory is a positive sign for the borough, indicating that despite seasonal fluctuations, the long-term trend is towards improved safety for the residents of Barnsley.

In the regional context of South and West Yorkshire, Barnsley's crime rate of 108.3 per 1,000 is part of a complex urban landscape. While the dataset shows a rate of 0.0 for nearby Sheffield, Wakefield, Kirklees, Rotherham, and Doncaster, these are major urban centres that typically have significant crime profiles of their own. Barnsley's clear decreasing trend of -5.9% is a particularly positive indicator when compared to these larger neighbours. For those considering the region, Barnsley offers a improving safety environment, though it remains an urban area where proactive security measures are advisable, especially when compared to more rural neighbouring districts like High Peak.

With a property crime rate of 36.0 per 1,000 people, Barnsley residents should prioritize the security of their homes and businesses. Traditional security systems, such as basic CCTV cameras or standard alarms, are often reactive—they only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. In an area where criminal damage and burglary are significant concerns, proactive protection is a much more effective strategy. scOS is an AI-powered security operating system designed to prevent crime before it happens. By monitoring your property's boundaries in real-time, scOS can distinguish between normal activity and a potential threat. If an intruder is detected, the system can autonomously respond by activating lights or speakers, effectively deterring the criminal before they can cause harm. For Barnsley homeowners, moving from reactive recording to proactive AI detection is the most reliable way to ensure their property is not a target.

How To Keep Safe in Barnsley

As violence and sexual offences and anti-social behaviour are the most common reports in Barnsley, personal safety in public areas is a priority. The town centre, particularly around transport hubs and nightlife areas, is where residents should be most vigilant. It is always advisable to plan your route, stay in well-lit areas, and travel with others when possible during the evening.

To stay safe across the Barnsley local authority area:

1. Be mindful of your belongings in busy retail areas like the Glass Works; opportunistic theft can occur in crowded spaces.
2. If you experience or witness anti-social behaviour, report it to the local 'Safer Neighbourhood Team' to help them allocate resources effectively.
3. Keep your home and outbuildings secure; criminal damage is a notable issue, so ensure gates are locked and valuable tools are not left visible.
4. When parking your car, use well-lit areas and ensure no valuables are left inside, as vehicle crime remains a persistent concern.
5. Consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to stay informed about crime trends and safety advice specific to your street or village.