The retail crime situation in West Bergholt, a built-up area within Colchester, is comparatively favourable when assessed against the national picture. The recorded crime rate stands at 47.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. To put this in context, the average crime rate for the United Kingdom as a whole is 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This suggests that West Bergholt experiences considerably fewer crimes per capita than the average UK location.
This lower crime rate contributes to a strong safety score for West Bergholt, currently rated at 88 out of 100. The UK average safety score is 79, indicating that West Bergholt is perceived as a safer place to live and operate a business. It's important to note that the crime rate is a statistical measure and doesn't necessarily reflect the lived experience of every resident or business owner. While the overall rate is low, individual instances of retail crime can still be disruptive and concerning.
Understanding what constitutes 'retail crime' is crucial. This can encompass a broad range of offences, from shoplifting and theft to vandalism and fraud. The data provided doesn't break down the specifics of crime types in West Bergholt, so a comprehensive understanding requires further local investigation. However, the lower overall crime rate suggests that the incidence of these retail-specific crimes is also likely to be lower than in areas with higher overall crime rates. The population of West Bergholt is 3301, meaning that the 47.3 crime rate represents approximately 155 incidents, again, compared to a significantly higher number across the UK.
It's advisable for businesses in West Bergholt to maintain standard security measures such as CCTV, adequate lighting, and staff training to deter potential offenders. Local authorities and community groups may offer crime prevention advice and support tailored to the needs of businesses in the area.