The question of whether Southbourne is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced look at the available data. Southbourne, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Chichester, has a population of 4741. Overall, the area exhibits a safety score of 88 out of 100, which is higher than the UK average of 79. However, the crucial aspect of nighttime safety paints a different picture. The night safety score for Southbourne is notably low, standing at only 13 out of 100.
Understanding the broader crime context is essential. Southbourne has a crime rate of 54.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6. This suggests that, generally, crime is less prevalent in Southbourne compared to the rest of the United Kingdom. When considering the nature of crime, the violent crime rate is 19.6 per 1,000 residents. While this isn’t inherently alarming, it contributes to the overall safety assessment.
The low night safety score (13/100) is the primary concern when evaluating nighttime safety. This metric likely reflects perceptions of safety and the frequency of incidents reported specifically during nighttime hours. It's important to note that this score isn’t necessarily indicative of a sudden surge in crime after dark, but rather a combination of factors, including reduced visibility, fewer people around, and potentially increased opportunities for opportunistic crime. The data doesn't specify the types of crimes that contribute to this low score, but it is important to consider it as a significant indicator.
Therefore, while Southbourne is generally a safer area than average in the UK, walking alone at night requires increased vigilance. It’s advisable to stick to well-lit streets, avoid secluded areas, and be mindful of your surroundings. Considering alternative transportation options, such as taxis or public transport, is also a prudent measure for those who feel uncomfortable walking alone after dark. It's important to remember that statistics represent reported incidents, and individual experiences can vary.