South Woodham Ferrers Crime Rate

South Woodham Ferrers is an exceptionally safe urban settlement with an overall crime rate of 34.6 per 1,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 93.1. This high level of safety is reflected in its impressive safety score of 91/100, outperforming the UK average of 78. The crime trend in South Woodham Ferrers has been on a decreasing trajectory, with a 17.2% reduction year-over-year. This downward trend is a positive indicator for the local community, providing a secure environment for residents. By examining the detailed crime data, residents can better understand the local safety landscape and take informed steps to protect themselves and their property.

Crime in South Woodham Ferrers

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in South Woodham Ferrers, representing 47.0% of all reported incidents. This is followed by anti-social behaviour (7.9%) and shoplifting (7.8%). These figures provide a snapshot of the local crime landscape, but property crime is a significant factor for homeowners.

The overall property crime rate in South Woodham Ferrers is 10.7 per 1,000 residents. This includes burglary, vehicle crime, and various types of theft. Specifically, there were 30 vehicle crimes and 15 burglaries recorded over the last year. While South Woodham Ferrers is statistically very safe, the property crime rate indicates that theft and vehicle-related offences are persistent concerns. Residents should take these figures into account when considering their home and vehicle security, as these types of crimes can be effectively reduced through proactive prevention and improved awareness.

Crime Trends in South Woodham Ferrers

The crime rate in South Woodham Ferrers has been on a decreasing trend, with a 17.2% reduction in total offences year-over-year. Monthly data from November 2024 to October 2025 shows consistent activity, with most months recording between 1.6 and 3.9 crimes per 1,000 people.

The rate peaked in August 2025 at 3.9 and saw a gradual decrease to its lowest point of 1.6 in April 2025. This downward trend is a positive sign for the local community, suggesting that South Woodham Ferrers is becoming even safer over time. The overall stability and reduction in crime provide a secure environment for residents, allowing them to maintain a standard set of security precautions with confidence. This consistent trend highlights South Woodham Ferrers as a safe and stable place to live.

How To Keep Safe in South Woodham Ferrers

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in South Woodham Ferrers. To ensure your personal safety while in the area, consider these practical tips:

• Stick to Well-Lit Paths: When walking at night, use main roads and avoid unlit shortcuts through parks or alleyways.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Avoid being distracted by your phone or headphones when walking in public. Staying aware of who is around you can help you stay safe.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, move toward a busy, well-lit area like a shop or pub immediately.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Reporting any unusual or suspicious behaviour to the local police helps them manage local safety more effectively.
• Secure Your Home: Ensure that all doors and windows are locked, even when you are inside, to provide an extra layer of personal security.

Temporal Crime Patterns

Crime in South Woodham Ferrers exhibits clear temporal trends throughout the day. In the morning, theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 49% of incidents. This trend continues into the afternoon, where theft reaches its peak at 54%. These patterns often correlate with the operating hours of local businesses and increased pedestrian activity.

In the evening, the focus shifts toward 'other' crimes, which include anti-social behaviour and public order offences, making up 46% of reports between 6pm and 12am. Overnight, vehicle crime becomes a significant factor, accounting for 45% of crimes reported between 12am and 6am. Burglary remains a steady threat, with a slight increase in the afternoon (14%) and night (15%). This data suggests that while theft is a daytime concern, vehicle security and anti-social behaviour are more prevalent during the late-night and overnight periods.

Regional Comparison

South Woodham Ferrers' crime rate of 34.6 is lower than nearby Hullbridge (41.2) and Battlesbridge (55.6). Nearby villages like Woodham Ferrers and Rettendon report 0.0 crimes, which is typical for their very small, rural populations. Compared to its immediate neighbours, South Woodham Ferrers is one of the safest residential options in the Chelmsford area. Its rate is well below the national average, making it a highly desirable and secure location for residents. This comparison highlights South Woodham Ferrers as an exceptionally safe residential area with a very low crime volume relative to the wider region.

Proactive Protection in South Woodham Ferrers

With a property crime rate of 10.7 per 1,000 residents, South Woodham Ferrers is a very safe place to live, but the risk of burglary and vehicle theft still exists. Traditional security systems, such as standard CCTV, are often reactive—they record footage of a crime but do nothing to stop it. For those who want real protection, a proactive approach is necessary.

The scOS operating system is designed to prevent crime before it happens. By using AI-powered multi-camera intelligence, it monitors your property's boundaries 24/7. Unlike DIY cameras that only notify you after someone is at your door, scOS detects threats at the perimeter. It can recognise your family and routines, meaning it only alerts you to genuine threats. If an intruder is detected, the system can autonomously engage lights and speakers, removing the element of surprise and deterring the criminal before they can act. This professional-grade protection is a significant step up from standard recording devices, offering true peace of mind.