The question of whether Bedford is safe for students is understandable, and it's responsible to research the area before committing to study there. Based on available data, Bedford’s overall crime rate is 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. Notably, this is exactly the same as the UK average, suggesting that Bedford isn't significantly more or less prone to crime than other areas of the country.
However, it's important to consider the breakdown of crime types. The violent crime rate in Bedford is 34.3 incidents per 1,000 people. While this figure isn't drastically higher than in some areas, it’s a factor to be aware of. It's worth noting that 'violent crime' encompasses a range of offences, and understanding the specifics of incidents within Bedford would provide a more nuanced picture, though that data isn't readily available within this overview.
Bedford's safety score is 79/100, which is identical to the UK average. This score is a composite measure, likely incorporating factors beyond just crime statistics, such as perceptions of safety and the presence of community support. A score of 79 suggests a reasonable level of safety, but doesn't guarantee complete security.
It's crucial to remember that crime statistics represent aggregate data. Individual experiences can vary significantly depending on location within Bedford and personal circumstances. Students should be mindful of their surroundings, particularly at night, and take precautions to protect their belongings, as they would in any urban environment. Local authorities and university security services are valuable resources for information and support regarding safety and crime prevention.