The question of how crime statistics impact the quality of life in Charnock Richard is a valid one, particularly when examining the available data. Based on current figures, Charnock Richard, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Chorley, has a crime rate of 121.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. While a higher crime rate can understandably raise concerns, it’s important to consider the context alongside other indicators of safety.
Interestingly, Charnock Richard’s Safety Score stands at 77 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79. A Safety Score is a composite measure reflecting perceptions of safety and security; a score of 77 suggests a relatively safe environment, although the elevated crime rate warrants further consideration. It’s crucial to remember that crime statistics represent reported incidents and don’t necessarily reflect the overall feeling of safety among residents.
What does this mean for quality of life? A higher crime rate can contribute to feelings of anxiety and insecurity, potentially impacting residents' willingness to engage in community activities or spend time outdoors. It may also influence property values and perceptions of the area. However, the relatively high Safety Score suggests that these negative impacts may be mitigated to some degree. It’s possible that the types of crimes occurring are less serious, or that the community has strong social cohesion which contributes to a sense of safety despite the higher reported crime rate.
It is important to note that the population of Charnock Richard is relatively small, at 1433 residents. Small populations can be more susceptible to statistical fluctuations, meaning a small number of incidents can significantly alter the crime rate per 1,000 people. Further investigation into the types of crimes reported would provide a more nuanced understanding of the situation and its impact on the community’s quality of life.