The question of how safe Whitchurch (Buckinghamshire) is at night is complex. While the overall crime rate is comparatively low, data suggests a need for caution. Whitchurch, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Buckinghamshire with a population of 1508, has a crime rate of 47.1 incidents per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, which initially paints a picture of relative safety.
However, a closer look at the statistics reveals a more nuanced picture. The violent crime rate in Whitchurch is 27.2 per 1,000, which while not drastically different from national levels, warrants attention. Crucially, the area's night safety score is only 11/100. This is substantially lower than the UK average night safety score of 79, indicating that residents and visitors may feel less safe after dark.
It's important to understand that safety scores are calculated using various factors including crime statistics, perceptions of safety, and environmental factors like lighting. A low night safety score suggests a combination of these elements may be contributing to the feeling of insecurity. The data doesn't provide specifics on the types of crimes occurring at night, so it's difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of the low score.
While the overall crime rate is below average, the combination of a measurable violent crime rate and a very low night safety score highlights the importance of exercising caution when out in Whitchurch after dark. This doesn’t necessarily mean that crime is rampant, but it suggests that awareness and preventative measures are advisable. It's always prudent to be mindful of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.