The question of what the current trends are in retail crime within Blackburn is a valid concern for businesses operating within the area. Based on available data, the trend in retail crime within Blackburn (Blackburn with Darwen) is currently stable, showing a year-on-year (YoY) change of just 0.9%. This suggests that the rate of increase or decrease in retail crime has been minimal over the past year.
However, it's crucial to understand this stability within the wider context of Blackburn’s overall crime statistics. The area, with a population of 124,917, has a crime rate of 123.2 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates that, while retail crime itself isn't dramatically changing, Blackburn generally experiences a higher level of criminal activity than the national average.
The safety score for Blackburn is 73/100, which is also below the UK average of 79/100. This suggests that residents and businesses may perceive the area as less safe compared to other parts of the country. While the 0.9% YoY stability in retail crime is positive, the higher baseline crime rate requires ongoing vigilance and proactive measures from retailers.
It's important to note that this data reflects overall crime trends and doesn’t provide a breakdown of specific types of retail crime (e.g., theft, fraud, vandalism). Businesses should consult with Lancashire Constabulary and local business crime reduction partnerships to gain more granular insights and tailored advice. Regular communication with the police and sharing information about suspicious activity can contribute to a safer environment for all.