Breckland Crime Rate

Breckland remains one of the safer districts in the UK, with an overall crime rate of 56.9 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK national average of 91.7, contributing to an impressive safety score of 86/100 (where the UK average is 79). The recent crime trend in the area is stable, showing a 4.6% decrease in total offences year-over-year. This indicates a consistently secure environment for the district's 146,620 inhabitants. While violence and sexual offences form the largest portion of reported incidents, the actual rates remain low compared to urban centres. The following report provides a detailed analysis of Breckland's crime statistics, helping residents understand local safety patterns and how to protect their properties effectively.

Breckland is a largely rural local authority district in Norfolk, characterised by its unique 'Brecks' landscape of heathland and forest. The area is home to several historic market towns, including Thetford, Dereham, Attleborough, and Swaffham, which serve as the primary residential and commercial hubs. The economy is traditionally rooted in agriculture and food production, though it also hosts various light industrial estates.

The district's crime statistics are influenced by its low population density and the self-contained nature of its towns. While the rural setting generally contributes to a lower crime rate than urban centres, the presence of major transport links like the A11 and A47 can introduce more transient activity. The area's demographics are relatively stable, but the seasonal nature of some agricultural work and the growing popularity of the region for domestic tourism can lead to minor fluctuations in reported incidents. Overall, Breckland's characteristics as a safe, community-focused region are reflected in its high safety score and lower-than-average crime rates.

In Breckland, the crime profile is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 42.9% of all reported crimes, at a rate of 24.4 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue (13.3%), followed by criminal damage and arson (9.7%). These figures suggest that while the overall volume of crime is low, interpersonal incidents and community-level disruption are the primary concerns for local authorities.

Property crime in Breckland is significantly lower than the UK average, with a rate of 16.8 per 1,000 people. This category includes burglary (1.4 per 1,000), vehicle crime (1.5 per 1,000), and other theft (3.6 per 1,000), along with shoplifting and bicycle theft. For residents and homeowners, this means that the statistical likelihood of experiencing a break-in or vehicle theft is relatively low. However, the prevalence of criminal damage and 'other theft' suggests that opportunistic offences still occur. Maintaining basic security hygiene and being mindful of outbuildings or vehicles parked in isolated spots remains important for maintaining the area's high safety standards.

The crime trend in Breckland is currently stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 4.6%. This indicates that the district's safety is being well-maintained. A review of the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows relatively consistent crime levels throughout the year. The highest crime rate was recorded in July 2025 at 5.5 per 1,000 residents, while the lowest was in December 2024 at 4.1. Most months hovered between 4.5 and 5.0, suggesting no significant seasonal volatility. For residents, this stability provides a high degree of predictability and peace of mind. The slight overall reduction in crime is an encouraging sign that local policing and community safety initiatives are having a positive impact across the district.

Breckland sits in a relatively low-crime region of Norfolk. Its crime rate of 56.9 per 1,000 is remarkably lower than the nearby city of Norwich, which sees a rate of 126.9. When compared to other surrounding districts such as Broadland, North Norfolk, South Norfolk, and King's Lynn and West Norfolk—all of which report negligible crime rates in this specific data period—Breckland appears as a slightly more active but still very safe area. It also compares favourably to West Suffolk. This context confirms Breckland as a secure choice for those seeking a rural or semi-rural lifestyle while remaining within reach of larger Norfolk and Suffolk hubs.

Despite Breckland's low property crime rate of 16.8 per 1,000, the rural and semi-rural nature of many properties can make them targets for opportunistic theft or criminal damage. Traditional security systems, like standard CCTV or basic alarms, are often reactive, merely providing evidence after a crime has been committed. In more isolated areas, the time it takes for a notification to reach a homeowner or for help to arrive can be critical.

The scOS AI-powered security system offers a proactive alternative by preventing crime before it happens. Using advanced AI, scOS monitors your property's boundaries in real-time, distinguishing between your family, a delivery driver, and a genuine threat. If an intruder is detected, the system can autonomously trigger a response—such as activating high-intensity lighting or audible warnings—to deter them immediately. For Breckland residents, this proactive approach provides a significant advantage, turning your home into a hard target and ensuring that security is handled automatically, day or night.

How To Keep Safe in Breckland

With violence and sexual offences being the most reported crime type in Breckland, regional safety advice focuses on personal awareness and community vigilance across the district's market towns and rural villages.

To maintain your safety, be aware of your surroundings when walking in less populated areas or after dark, particularly in town centres like Thetford or Dereham. Ensure your home is well-lit, especially if you live in a more isolated rural property, as good lighting is a simple but effective deterrent. When using public transport or parking in town, keep your valuables out of sight to discourage opportunistic theft. We also recommend joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme, which can be an excellent way to stay informed about local issues and support your community. By taking these sensible precautions and looking out for your neighbours, you can help maintain Breckland's status as a safe and welcoming place to live.