The question of whether Harlington is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced look at available data. Harlington, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Central Bedfordshire with a population of 2280, presents a mixed picture. Overall, its safety score is 87 out of 100, which is above the UK average of 79, suggesting a relatively safe environment. However, the specific 'Night Safety Score' is a concerning 12 out of 100. This significantly lower score indicates a heightened perception of risk after dark.
Let's break down the numbers. The overall crime rate in Harlington stands at 52.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally, crime is less prevalent in Harlington than in many other parts of the country. The violent crime rate is also lower, at 20.6 per 1,000, again compared to a UK average – the specific UK average for violent crime is not provided in the data.
However, the 'Night Safety Score' of 12 highlights that residents likely feel less safe when out after dark. This could be due to a variety of factors, including reduced visibility, fewer people on the streets, and a perceived increase in opportunistic crime. It's important to remember that safety scores are often based on perceived safety and reported incidents, which may not always perfectly align. The data doesn’t provide reasons for the low night safety score, so it’s important to consider this when interpreting the data.
While the lower crime rate is reassuring, the low night safety score warrants caution. It's advisable to be particularly aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night in Harlington. Consider using well-lit routes, travelling with a friend, and avoiding isolated areas. Always trust your instincts – if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.