Understanding the level of police presence and response times in Petworth, Chichester, is crucial for residents’ peace of mind. Based on 2024 data, the mean immediate response time for police in Petworth is 16 minutes, while the mean priority response time is 107 minutes. This means that incidents requiring urgent attention are dealt with quicker than those deemed less critical.
It's important to contextualise these figures. Petworth, classified as a Built-up Area (BUA) within the Chichester district, has a population of 3291. Its crime rate stands at 66.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, overall, Petworth experiences less crime than many other areas in the country. Furthermore, Petworth boasts a safety score of 86 out of 100, significantly exceeding the UK average of 79, indicating a generally safe environment.
Response times are influenced by a variety of factors, including the severity of the incident, police resource availability, and geographical distance. 'Immediate' responses are reserved for emergencies posing an immediate threat to life or serious risk of harm. 'Priority' responses address incidents that require police attention but don’t fall under the immediate category. The 107-minute priority response time indicates a longer wait for non-emergency situations, which could be due to a number of reasons including resource allocation across the Chichester district.
It’s vital to report all incidents to the police, regardless of perceived severity. Accurate reporting helps police understand crime patterns and allocate resources effectively. Familiarise yourself with the different categories of incidents and how to report them appropriately. Consider checking the Sussex Police website for updates on local policing initiatives and crime prevention advice.