The rural location of Rural Cotswold in Cotswold undeniably plays a significant role in its comparatively low crime rates. The area, with a population of 27,564, demonstrates a crime rate of 49.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is substantially lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a significantly safer environment. Furthermore, Rural Cotswold boasts a safety score of 89 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, reinforcing this perception of heightened safety.
Several factors associated with rural areas contribute to this trend. Lower population density often means fewer opportunities for crime and less anonymity for potential offenders. The strong sense of community that is typically found in rural areas fosters social cohesion and informal surveillance, discouraging criminal activity. Residents are often more likely to know their neighbours and look out for one another, creating a deterrent effect.
While the rural setting is a major contributing factor, it's important to acknowledge that crime can still occur. The types of crimes observed in rural areas may differ from those in urban centres; for example, rural crime can include theft of agricultural equipment or poaching. However, the overall prevalence remains lower. The lower crime rate and high safety score of Rural Cotswold reflect a combination of geographic factors and a strong community spirit. It’s worth noting that while crime rates are lower, continued vigilance and proactive measures are still essential to maintain this favourable safety profile. Residents should remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.