Blackburn Crime Rate September 2023 | Monthly Statistics

For a population of 124,917 residents, Blackburn recorded 1,341 crimes in September 2023 — equating to one reported crime for every 93 residents over the course of the month. This crime rate of 10.7 per 1,000 residents places the area 33.7% above the UK average of 8.0. The most common crimes were violence and sexual offences (33% of total), anti-social behaviour (32.7%), and shoplifting (7.8%). These figures align with seasonal patterns typical of September, when the return to school and university freshers may contribute to increased public activity in town centres and residential areas. Violence and sexual offences, which rose by 25.1% compared to August, may be influenced by heightened social interactions during this period. Anti-social behaviour, already significantly higher than the UK average (161% above), saw a 42.3% increase in September, reflecting patterns often observed in built-up areas with high foot traffic. Shoplifting, at 0.8 per 1,000 residents, remains 43% above the UK average, linked to retail activity in the area. The crime profile suggests a complex mix of local factors, including the area's historical industrial character and its role as a commuter hub, which may shape both property and violent crime trends.

September 2023 saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with public order offences rising by 42.3% (52 to 74) — the largest single-month increase in this category. Violence and sexual offences also rose sharply, increasing by 25.1% (354 to 443), which may be partly explained by the start of the academic year and increased social activity in public spaces. Theft from the person surged by 60%, from five to eight incidents, a figure that could be of particular concern for residents and visitors. Conversely, bicycle theft dropped by 71.4% (7 to 2), due to reduced outdoor activity or improved security measures. Anti-social behaviour remains a stark outlier, with 438 incidents (3.5 per 1,000) — 161% above the UK average of 1.3 per 1,000 — highlighting the area's persistent challenge with this category. Shoplifting, at 105 incidents, remains 43% above the UK average, a trend consistent with the area's retail presence. The decrease in possession of weapons (from 16 to 9) may reflect temporary changes in policing focus or seasonal factors, though the underlying rate still sits 43% above the UK average.

The crime rate in Blackburn for September 2023 (10.7 per 1,000) marks a 12.7% increase from the previous month's rate of 9.5 per 1,000. This rise translates to 45 crimes per day on average — a figure that underscores the pace of reported incidents in a built-up area with over 124,000 residents. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for roughly every 93 residents, a ratio that provides context for individual risk perception. When compared to the UK average, Blackburn's rate remains significantly higher, with violent crimes and anti-social behaviour contributing disproportionately. The daily crime count of 45 — equivalent to one crime every 5.5 hours — may seem high to local residents, though this reflects both reporting rates and the area's specific characteristics. The monthly exposure figure (1-in-93 residents) should be interpreted as a broad indicator rather than a precise measure of personal risk, as crime distribution is uneven across neighbourhoods. The comparison with the UK average highlights the need for targeted interventions in areas where anti-social behaviour and violence consistently exceed national benchmarks.