Dodworth Crime Rate

Dodworth's crime profile reveals a combination of local and national trends. While the area's overall crime rate of 79.7 per 1,000 is 12.4% below the UK average, it experiences a starkly elevated rate of criminal damage and arson—51% higher than the national average. This contrast, alongside a 300% YoY surge in possession of weapons, highlights the need to understand why this built-up area diverges from broader patterns, despite its overall safety.

Dodworth is a built-up area within Barnsley, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial properties. As a commuter town, it attracts a diverse population, including working professionals and families. The area's moderate population density and proximity to urban centres may contribute to its crime profile, with property crime and anti-social behaviour being notable. Economic factors, such as local employment opportunities and housing affordability, likely influence crime trends here.

Dodworth's most striking crime statistic is the 51% higher rate of criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average (10.0 vs 6.6 per 1,000). This may reflect the area's older housing stock or a higher incidence of anti-social behaviour. Possession of weapons, though lower than the UK average (1.3 vs 0.9 per 1,000), has surged by 300% YoY, suggesting a sudden shift in local dynamics. Violence and sexual offences, though 12% below the UK average (28.3 vs 32.1 per 1,000), have risen slightly (+6% YoY), possibly linked to seasonal factors or transient populations. Property crime, at 27.8 per 1,000 (12.9% below the UK average), shows a mixed profile, with burglary decreasing (-36% YoY) but remaining above the UK average. This contrast may indicate improved security measures or targeted policing efforts.

Crime in Dodworth has decreased by 9.3% year-on-year, reflecting broader national trends of improved policing and community engagement. However, possession of weapons has surged by 300% YoY, reaching 1.3 per 1,000 residents, a sharp deviation from the trend. Monthly trends show a peak in April (7.5 per 1,000) followed by a steady decline, likely influenced by seasonal factors such as increased outdoor activity in spring. The February 2026 rate of 5.3 per 1,000 marks the lowest point in the data period, possibly linked to colder weather and reduced social interactions.

How To Keep Safe in Dodworth

For Dodworth residents, focus on property security to mitigate risks. Given the area's 51% higher rate of criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average, secure outbuildings and vehicles with motion sensors and reinforced locks. Avoid leaving valuables in unsecured vehicles, as vehicle crime occurs at 4.0 per 1,000 residents. For anti-social behaviour, which peaks in the evening, consider community engagement initiatives. Report suspicious activity promptly, and use local safety apps for real-time alerts. For possession of weapons, which has surged by 300% YoY, avoid confrontation and ensure personal safety by staying in well-lit areas.

Crime in Dodworth follows distinct temporal patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), aligning with retail activity and commuter movements. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am–6am), likely due to fewer witnesses and targeted vandalism. Other crime, such as anti-social behaviour, is most common in the evening (6pm–12am), reflecting social interactions in public spaces. Burglary rates remain relatively stable across all times, suggesting opportunistic targeting rather than time-specific trends.

Dodworth's crime rate of 79.7 per 1,000 is higher than Silkstone (31.8 per 1,000), which is 151% lower, and Cawthorne (39.5 per 1,000), which is 102% lower. Barugh Green and Redbrook (62.2 per 1,000) is 28% lower than Dodworth, while Silkstone Common (44.1 per 1,000) is 81% lower. These differences likely reflect variations in population density, economic conditions, and policing strategies across these areas.

For Dodworth households, scOS offers targeted solutions to address the area's elevated risk of criminal damage and arson. Its AI-powered boundary detection identifies suspicious activity around the property, such as a person approaching a fence at 1 a.m. triggering immediate deterrents like automated lights and speakers. This proactive approach is critical in an area where criminal damage and arson are 51% above the UK average. Ethernet-connected cameras ensure uninterrupted monitoring, and two weeks of cloud recording provides clear evidence for investigations. By responding autonomously, scOS disrupts potential threats before they escalate, offering a robust layer of protection for Dodworth residents.