Bracknell Forest Crime Rate

Bracknell Forest presents a favourable safety profile, with an overall crime rate of 64.2 per 1,000 people. This figure is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6, contributing to the area's strong safety score of 85/100. The district has seen a positive shift in its security landscape, with crime rates decreasing by 5.1% year-over-year. This downward trend, combined with a property crime rate of 21.4 per 1,000—also well below the national average of 32.2—makes Bracknell Forest a secure choice for residents and businesses alike. The following sections provide a comprehensive analysis of local crime types, trends, and safety recommendations to help you better understand the environment in this part of Berkshire.

Bracknell Forest is a diverse local authority area in Berkshire, characterised by a mix of modern urban centres, expansive parklands, and established residential neighbourhoods. The area is a significant economic hub, hosting the UK headquarters of several major technology and pharmaceutical companies, which brings a large daily influx of professional commuters. This economic activity, centred largely around the town of Bracknell and its various business parks, contributes to a transient daytime population that can influence crime statistics, particularly those related to property and retail.

The district also features a vibrant retail sector, notably The Lexicon, which serves as a major regional shopping destination. Such high-footfall commercial areas naturally experience higher rates of shoplifting and opportunistic theft compared to the quieter, more rural parts of the forest. Demographically, Bracknell Forest is home to a growing population of families and young professionals, drawn by excellent transport links to London and Reading. These factors—high employment, significant retail activity, and a well-connected suburban layout—create a dynamic environment where crime is relatively low but influenced by the district's role as a commercial and transport corridor.

Crime in Bracknell Forest is primarily led by violence and sexual offences, which constitute 38.5% of all reported incidents, with a rate of 24.7 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue at 15.6%, followed by shoplifting at 8.1%. These figures highlight that while personal safety is the primary concern, the commercial nature of the area also drives significant retail-related crime.

Property-related crime is a vital consideration for homeowners in the district, with an overall property crime rate of 21.4 per 1,000 people. This combined figure includes burglary (2.9% of total crime), vehicle crime (5.8%), and various forms of theft, including bicycle theft (1.2%) and 'other theft' (7.0%). Criminal damage and arson also account for 6.9% of the total. For residents, this means that while burglary rates are relatively low at 1.9 per 1,000, vehicle crime and general theft are more prevalent threats. Ensuring that vehicles are secure and that properties have visible deterrents is essential in mitigating these opportunistic crimes, especially in the more densely populated urban and commercial zones of the forest.

The crime trend in Bracknell Forest is currently decreasing, with a -5.1% year-over-year change in total incidents. This reduction indicates a strengthening safety environment for the district's residents.

Looking at the monthly data for 2025, the crime rate showed some seasonal variation. It began the year at 5.5 in January, dipped to 4.6 in February, and then saw a gradual increase towards a mid-year peak of 6.3 in July. Following this peak, the rate steadily declined through the autumn and winter months, reaching its lowest point of 4.4 in December. This pattern suggests that while the summer months may see a slight uptick in reported activity—possibly due to increased public movement and longer daylight hours—the overall trajectory for the year remains downward. For residents, this consistent year-end decline is a positive sign that the area is maintaining its status as a safe and secure part of Berkshire.

In a regional context, Bracknell Forest sits within a cluster of very safe local authorities. When compared to similar nearby areas such as Windsor and Maidenhead, Surrey Heath, Wokingham, Runnymede, Slough, and Rushmoor—all of which report minimal crime in current comparative datasets—Bracknell Forest remains a highly secure location. While its crime rate of 64.2 per 1,000 is higher than the nominal 0.0 reported for these specific neighbours in recent snapshots, it is important to note that all these areas are significantly safer than the UK average. Bracknell Forest serves as a major commercial hub for the region, which naturally attracts more activity, yet it maintains a safety score that places it among the more secure districts in the South East.

With a property crime rate of 21.4 per 1,000 people in Bracknell Forest, residents should prioritise security measures that offer more than just evidence after the fact. Traditional security, such as basic alarm systems or standard cameras, often only alerts you once a crime has been committed. In contrast, proactive protection is designed to stop a crime before it happens.

The scOS AI-powered security system provides this proactive edge. It uses multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's perimeter, identifying threats the moment they appear. Unlike traditional systems that might only record a burglary, scOS can intervene autonomously by activating speakers or lights, destroying the element of surprise that burglars rely on. In an area like Bracknell Forest, where vehicle crime (3.7 per 1,000) is more common than burglary, scOS's ability to verify vehicle plates and recognise routines ensures that you are only alerted to genuine threats. Moving from reactive recording to proactive prevention is the most effective way to secure your home in this region.

How To Keep Safe in Bracknell Forest

The most prevalent crime type in Bracknell Forest is violence and sexual offences, followed by anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. While the area is safe compared to national averages, taking proactive steps can further enhance your personal security.

1. Situational Awareness: When visiting high-footfall areas like The Lexicon or transport hubs, remain aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure to prevent opportunistic theft.
2. Report Anti-Social Behaviour: If you notice persistent ASB in your neighbourhood, report it to the local council or police. This helps authorities allocate resources to specific hotspots effectively.
3. Retail Vigilance: For business owners and shoppers, being alert to shoplifting patterns can help reduce retail crime. Ensure that high-value items are not easily accessible from store entrances.
4. Home Perimeter Security: Use gravel paths and well-maintained fencing to create a 'noisy' and defined boundary around your property, which acts as a natural deterrent to intruders.
5. Vehicle Precautions: Given the vehicle crime rate, always ensure your car is locked, even when parked on your driveway, and consider using a steering wheel lock for added visual deterrence.