The question of police presence in Stow-on-the-Wold, a built-up area (BUA) within the Cotswold district, is a pertinent one for many residents. Let's examine the data available to understand the current situation.
Firstly, it's helpful to contextualise the crime rate. Stow-on-the-Wold has a crime rate of 79.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This suggests that, statistically, Stow-on-the-Wold experiences less crime than many other areas in the UK.
Beyond raw crime numbers, the safety score provides a broader perspective. Stow-on-the-Wold boasts a safety score of 83 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. This indicates a generally perceived feeling of safety within the community.
Turning to police response times, data from 2024 reveals the mean immediate response time is 15 minutes. Immediate responses are typically reserved for urgent situations requiring immediate intervention. The mean priority response time, however, is 91 minutes. Priority responses are for incidents that require police attention but do not necessitate an immediate presence. It's important to note that these are mean times; actual response times can vary significantly depending on factors such as incident location, available resources, and the severity of the situation.
It is also worth noting that the population of Stow-on-the-Wold is relatively small, with 1917 residents. This can influence the allocation of police resources and potentially impact response times.
While the statistics suggest a reasonable level of police presence and a relatively low crime rate, residents should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or concerns to Gloucestershire Constabulary. Understanding the meaning of immediate versus priority responses can also help manage expectations during emergency situations. Further information on reporting crime and contacting the police can be found on the Gloucestershire Constabulary website.