The question of safety for residents walking around Oakley (Basingstoke and Deane) at night is a valid concern. While overall, Oakley appears relatively safe compared to the UK average, a closer look at the data reveals a more nuanced picture.
Oakley, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Basingstoke and Deane, has a population of 5676. Its overall crime rate stands at 41.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a generally lower level of criminal activity compared to the national picture. Oakley also boasts a Safety Score of 89 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. This score indicates a perception of safety amongst residents.
However, the Night Safety Score paints a different, less reassuring picture. Oakley's Night Safety Score is a concerning 15 out of 100. This metric specifically assesses feelings of safety when walking alone at night. Coupled with a Violent Crime Rate of 21.0 per 1,000 residents, it suggests that while overall crime is low, the perceived risk and actual incidents of violent crime are comparatively higher during nighttime hours. It's important to note that the Violent Crime Rate, while lower than the UK average, is still a factor to consider.
What does this mean for residents? While Oakley isn't inherently dangerous, the low Night Safety Score indicates that residents should exercise caution when walking alone at night. This doesn't mean avoiding outdoor activity altogether, but rather being mindful of your surroundings. Well-lit routes should be prioritised, and letting someone know your plans before venturing out is always advisable. Consider travelling in groups where possible. The data suggests that perceptions of safety at night are lower than the overall safety assessment, implying that residents may feel less secure after dark, and that potential risks should be acknowledged and mitigated.