Monthly Crime Statistics

Blackburn Crime Rate April 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Blackburn's crime rate in April 2023 was 10.0 per 1,000, 33.3% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour was 154% above the UK average, highlighting a significant local challenge.

1,246
Total Crimes
10
Per 1,000 People
7.5
UK Average
-1.3%
vs Previous Month

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April 2023 in Blackburn revealed a combination of violent and property crime, with violent offences slightly dominating the overall crime rate of 10.0 per 1,000. This rate, 33.3% above the UK average of 7.5 per 1,000, highlights a significant disparity that demands closer examination. The most common crimes were violence and sexual offences (31.4% of total), anti-social behaviour (30.3%), and criminal damage and arson (8.0%). These figures align with Blackburn's character as a post-industrial town with a history of social challenges, where anti-social behaviour and public disorder may be exacerbated by economic factors or community tensions. The seasonal context of April, marked by Easter and spring weather, likely influenced patterns of outdoor activity and social interactions, potentially contributing to the prevalence of anti-social behaviour. While property crime remained a concern, the slight edge in violent crimes suggests a shift in focus that could reflect broader societal dynamics or local policing priorities. The UK comparison underscores Blackburn's elevated risk profile, requiring targeted interventions to address the root causes of these disparities.

April 2023 saw a 500% increase in bicycle theft, rising from 1 to 6 cases, a stark anomaly that may reflect seasonal changes or targeted activity. Robbery also increased by 28.6%, from 7 to 9 incidents, suggesting a potential shift in criminal focus. Conversely, theft from the person fell by 84.6%, from 13 to 2 cases, possibly due to heightened awareness or seasonal factors. The balance between property and violent crime shifted slightly, with violent crimes (391) narrowly outpacing property crimes (379). This suggests a growing emphasis on personal safety concerns. Anti-social behaviour, at 3.0 per 1,000, was 154% above the UK average, indicating a pressing local issue. These figures offer residents a clear snapshot of where to direct attention, particularly in addressing anti-social behaviour and the unexpected rise in bicycle theft.

Blackburn's crime rate in April 2023 remained stable at 10.0 per 1,000, a 1.3% decrease from the previous month's 10.1 per 1,000. This consistency suggests no major spikes or dips in overall criminal activity during the period. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 42 crimes per day, highlighting the persistent presence of criminal activity in Blackburn. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 100 residents, a figure that contextualises the impact of crime on the local population. Given Blackburn's population of 124,917, this monthly exposure translates to a tangible experience for residents, with crime remaining a consistent concern despite minor fluctuations. The stability in the rate contrasts with the UK average of 7.5 per 1,000, underscoring the area's higher-than-average risk profile. This comparison reinforces the need for continued local policing efforts and community engagement.

Crime Breakdown - April 2023

Crime TypeCountPer 1,000% of Total
Violence and sexual offences3913.131.4%
Anti-social behaviour378330.3%
Criminal damage and arson990.88%
Shoplifting940.87.5%
Vehicle crime690.65.5%
Other theft680.55.5%
Public order490.43.9%
Burglary320.32.6%
Other crime260.22.1%
Drugs150.11.2%
Robbery90.10.7%
Possession of weapons80.10.6%
Bicycle theft60.10.5%
Theft from the person200.2%

Understanding Our Data

How we source and verify crime information for Blackburn (Blackburn with Darwen)

4,683+
Areas Covered
8.2M+
Crime Records
100%
Official Sources

Understanding the Calculations

The crime rate represents the number of recorded incidents per thousand residents in Blackburn (Blackburn with Darwen). This approach ensures fair comparison regardless of area population size.

Our Information

All statistics come from official government sources: Police.uk provides recorded crime data while the Office for National Statistics supplies population figures. We aggregate data at multiple geographic levels for context.

Formula Used

Crimes per 1k residents = (Total incidents ÷ Population) × 1,000

Our statistics derive entirely from UK government databases:

  • Police.ukCrime records from territorial police forces across England and Wales (43 total)
  • Office for National StatisticsPopulation statistics and the Crime Survey for England and Wales
  • Home OfficeNationwide crime data and official policy records
  • FOI RequestsAdditional statistics obtained via formal requests to police services
Our system covers 4,683+ areas across England and Wales, including major urban centers, towns, and administrative regions. We refresh statistics immediately when official sources publish updates (generally monthly) and maintain archives for historical analysis.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

scOS is not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.

Page updated: 12 April 2026

New data is released by Police.uk approximately once a month