The question of whether West Horndon is safe to walk around at night is complex and requires examining the available data. Based on current figures, West Horndon, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the Brentwood district, has a population of 1622. The overall crime rate stands at 82.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is slightly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests, on the surface, a potentially safer environment compared to many other areas in the country. However, a crucial element is the Night Safety Score, which is a concerning 5 out of 100 – significantly lower than the UK average of 79. This indicates that residents perceive the area as less safe after dark.
Further analysis reveals a Violent Crime Rate of 24.0 per 1,000 residents. While not drastically higher than some areas, this figure contributes to the lower Night Safety Score. It's important to note that these figures represent reported crimes; the actual number of incidents may be higher. The Safety Score, being 81/100 overall, suggests a relatively secure environment during daylight hours, but the stark contrast with the Night Safety Score highlights a different reality at night.
It’s important to interpret these numbers within the context of a small village. Lower population sizes can sometimes lead to disproportionately higher or lower crime rates due to smaller sample sizes and the impact of individual incidents. While the overall crime rate is not alarming, the Night Safety Score strongly advises exercising caution when walking around West Horndon after dark. This includes being mindful of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas, and, where possible, walking with a companion.