The effectiveness of the police presence in Westoning, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Central Bedfordshire, is a complex question best answered by examining available data. Based on current figures, Westoning appears to be relatively safe compared to the national average. The crime rate in Westoning stands at 33.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates a lower prevalence of crime within the area.
Furthermore, Westoning boasts a safety score of 92 out of 100, which is considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This score likely reflects the lower crime rate and potentially other factors contributing to a sense of safety among residents. It's important to note that safety scores are often based on a combination of objective data and subjective perceptions.
However, a crucial aspect of police effectiveness is response time. Data from 2024 indicates that the mean immediate response time for police in Westoning is 19 minutes. The mean priority response time, however, is a more substantial 116 minutes. This longer priority response time could be a point of concern, suggesting potential delays in addressing non-emergency incidents or situations requiring a less urgent but still necessary police intervention. It's vital to understand that these are mean times and individual response times can vary significantly depending on factors like location, resource availability, and the nature of the incident.
While the data points to a generally safe environment with a lower crime rate, the longer priority response time warrants attention. It's recommended that residents remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and engage with local community initiatives to contribute to maintaining Westoning’s safety profile. Further investigation into the factors contributing to the longer priority response times may be beneficial to ensure residents' continued safety and wellbeing.