The question of how shoplifting levels in Sarn compare to other similar areas is a valid concern for residents and businesses. Based on available data, Sarn, a BUA in Bridgend with a population of 12,531, exhibits a crime rate of 92.8 incidents per 1,000 people. This figure is marginally higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the difference isn’t substantial, it’s important to understand the broader context.
To provide a more nuanced comparison, we can examine shoplifting rates in nearby areas. Pen-y-cae and Llangeinor demonstrate exceptionally low rates, both recording 0.0 incidents per 1,000 people. Pen-y-fai's rate stands at 40.2 per 1,000, significantly lower than Sarn’s. Bettws reports a rate of 71.9 per 1,000, closer to, but still lower than Sarn. This suggests that shoplifting is more prevalent in Sarn than in these specific neighbouring areas.
Furthermore, the safety score for Sarn is 78 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79. While this score provides a general indication of perceived safety, it doesn’t isolate shoplifting specifically. It's important to note that safety scores are often subjective and influenced by various factors beyond just crime rates.
Several factors could contribute to the slightly elevated shoplifting rate in Sarn. These might include local economic conditions, the presence of retail outlets that are more attractive targets for theft, or variations in reporting practices. Without further investigation, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact causes. It’s also crucial to remember that crime statistics can fluctuate, and this data represents a snapshot in time. The data does not cover any specific period, so trends cannot be analysed.