The perception of safety within a community is intrinsically linked to the reported crime statistics. In Swaffham, Breckland, the relationship between crime data and how safe residents feel is a positive one. Swaffham, with a population of 8710, has a crime rate of 70.5 incidents per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate, which stands at 91.6 per 1,000.
This lower crime rate directly contributes to a higher safety score for Swaffham. The area currently boasts a safety score of 84 out of 100, well above the UK average of 79. A safety score this high suggests that residents likely perceive Swaffham as a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. While the precise methodology behind the safety score isn't detailed, it's reasonable to assume it incorporates factors beyond raw crime statistics, such as perceived levels of policing, community cohesion, and fear of crime.
It's important to remember that crime statistics represent reported incidents. They don’t necessarily capture the full picture of criminal activity. However, the fact that Swaffham’s reported crime rate is below the national average strongly suggests a lower incidence of crime compared to many other areas of the UK. While no place is entirely free from crime, the available data indicates that Swaffham enjoys a relatively safe environment. The lower crime rate, coupled with a high safety score, is a positive indicator of the community’s overall wellbeing and likely contributes to a greater sense of security amongst its residents. It's crucial to continually monitor these statistics and address any emerging trends to maintain this positive perception.