The question of what Burnley Council is doing to address crime is a vital one, particularly given the area’s current situation. Burnley, with a population of 99,233, currently has a crime rate of 140.7 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. Furthermore, Burnley’s safety score is 69/100, falling below the UK average of 79.
While specific details of Burnley Council's current actions are not directly available in the provided data, it's reasonable to infer that the council is likely engaging in a range of initiatives to mitigate the elevated crime rate. These typically include increased police presence and targeted patrols in areas identified as crime hotspots. Funding for community safety partnerships, designed to bring together local authorities, police, and voluntary organisations, is also likely being allocated. These partnerships often implement preventative measures such as youth outreach programs, crime prevention education, and support for victims of crime.
The higher crime rate compared to the UK average suggests a need for a comprehensive and targeted approach. This might involve analysing crime trends to understand the root causes – factors that could range from socioeconomic challenges to limited opportunities for young people. The council would likely work with Lancashire Constabulary to implement these strategies.
It’s important to note that a low safety score, 69/100, indicates a perception of lower safety among residents. This perception can be influenced by factors beyond just reported crime statistics, such as feelings of insecurity and fear of crime. Addressing these perceptions requires not only reducing crime but also building trust and confidence in local authorities and emergency services. Ultimately, a multi-faceted approach, combining reactive policing with proactive preventative measures and community engagement, is necessary for Burnley to improve its safety score and reduce its crime rate.