The question of whether specific areas in Stoke Poges are experiencing increased shoplifting is complex to answer definitively without more granular data. However, we can assess the overall crime picture for the BUA (Built-Up Area) of Stoke Poges in Buckinghamshire to understand the context.
Currently, Stoke Poges has a crime rate of 53.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting that Stoke Poges is generally a safe area. The overall safety score for the area is 87 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. This high safety score indicates a perceived sense of security amongst residents.
Importantly, the crime trend in Stoke Poges is decreasing, showing an 8.3% year-on-year reduction. This positive trend suggests that efforts to reduce crime are proving effective. However, it doesn’t negate the possibility of localised increases in specific types of crime, such as shoplifting, within the BUA. Without more specific data on shoplifting incidents by location within Stoke Poges, it's impossible to pinpoint areas experiencing increased activity.
It's important to note that the population of Stoke Poges (BUA) is 5592, which is a relatively small area. This means that even a small number of shoplifting incidents can appear statistically significant when calculating crime rates per 1,000 residents. While the overall crime rate is low, local businesses should remain proactive in implementing crime prevention measures, such as CCTV, improved lighting, and staff training. Residents should be encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour to the police, which helps maintain the safety and security of the community. Further investigation would be required to determine if particular areas or businesses are disproportionately affected by shoplifting.