Retford Crime Rate

Retford's crime profile reveals a complex picture: while its overall rate is 11.1% below the UK average, Other crime is 90% above the national rate. This contrast highlights the area's unique challenges, particularly in unmonitored public spaces. Bicycle theft has surged by 57% YoY, despite remaining 42% below the UK average. Retford's 81/100 safety score reflects effective local policing, but targeted crime prevention strategies are needed to address specific vulnerabilities.

Retford is a built-up area in Bassetlaw, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial zones. Its proximity to major transport routes and a moderate population density likely contribute to crime patterns. The area's economic profile, with a focus on retail and services, may explain higher rates of shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. However, Retford's overall crime rate remains 11.1% below the UK average, reflecting effective local policing and community engagement.

The most striking finding is that Other crime in Retford is 90% above the UK average (3.8 vs 2.0 per 1,000). This may stem from unmonitored public spaces or transient populations in certain areas. Criminal damage and arson (10% above UK average) could relate to industrial sites or older housing stock requiring maintenance. Shoplifting, though 8% above the UK average, has fallen sharply (-31% YoY), due to improved retail security measures. Conversely, anti-social behaviour remains 14% below the UK average, suggesting successful community initiatives. The sharp rise in bicycle theft (+57% YoY) may reflect increased cycling during the pandemic or gaps in bike parking infrastructure.

Crime in Retford has decreased by 13.6% YoY, with most categories showing reductions. Shoplifting fell sharply (-31%), likely due to improved retail security. However, bicycle theft rose dramatically (+57%), possibly linked to increased cycling during the pandemic. Violence and sexual offences increased by 12% YoY, remaining 1% below the UK average. Monthly trends show a peak in July 2025 (8.0 per 1,000) and trough in August 2025 (5.1 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal factors such as summer events and longer evenings.

How To Keep Safe in Retford

To mitigate Other crime (3.8 per 1,000), avoid leaving valuables unattended in public spaces, especially near transport hubs. For criminal damage (7.2 per 1,000), secure outdoor areas with motion-activated lighting. Given the 57% YoY rise in bicycle theft, use high-visibility bike locks and register bikes with local authorities. Community engagement remains critical: Retford's 81/100 safety score reflects collective efforts, but targeted prevention is needed to address persistent crime patterns.

Crime in Retford follows distinct patterns by time of day. Theft peaks in the afternoon (42% of cases), aligning with retail hours and potential shoplifting opportunities. Vehicle crime spikes at night (38% of cases), likely linked to unsecured parking in residential areas. Other crime is most prevalent in the evening (55% of cases), possibly tied to social activities in the town centre. Nighttime burglary rates (17%) suggest targeted approaches by offenders, while daytime anti-social behaviour (38%) may reflect workplace or school-related conflicts.

Compared to Clarborough, which has a crime rate of 43.3 per 1,000, Retford's rate is 87% higher. This disparity likely reflects Clarborough's more rural character and lower population density. Retford's built-up nature and proximity to transport routes may explain its higher crime rates, particularly in property-related offences.

For Retford residents facing elevated Other crime (90% above UK average), scOS offers proactive boundary detection. Its AI identifies threats before they reach property perimeters, distinguishing between household members and intruders. Simultaneous multi-camera monitoring ensures no blind spots, while DVLA vehicle verification flags suspicious vehicles. This system is particularly relevant for Retford's 3.8 per 1,000 Other crime rate, which may involve unmonitored public spaces.