Bishop Middleham Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Bishop Middleham, County Durham, reveal a crime rate of 26.6 per 1,000 residents annually, based on data from January 2025 to December 2025. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000 residents, suggesting a relatively safer environment. However, a closer look at the breakdown reveals concerning figures regarding violence and sexual offences. While crime rates have been decreasing, understanding the specific types of crime and their trends is essential for ensuring community safety. The safety score for Bishop Middleham is 92/100, indicating a high level of perceived safety among residents.

The crime landscape in Bishop Middleham reveals a concerning prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for 45.5% of recorded incidents (15 crimes). Criminal damage and arson, along with ‘other’ crime categories, each contribute 12.1% (4 crimes apiece). Vehicle crime represents 9.1% of reported incidents (3 crimes), while anti-social behaviour mirrors this figure. Notably, burglary is comparatively low, accounting for only 3% of crimes (1 crime), as is public order and drugs. Overall, property crime in Bishop Middleham stands at 7.3 per 1,000 residents annually, a figure that while concerning, remains lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000.

Crime rates in Bishop Middleham have experienced a notable decrease of 26.7% year-on-year. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 demonstrates fluctuations, with a peak in April 2025 (4.0 per 1,000/month) and a low in May 2025 (0.8 per 1,000/month). Subsequent months show a generally downward trend, culminating in a rate of 2.4 per 1,000/month in December 2025. This decline suggests a positive shift in community safety, although continued vigilance and proactive crime prevention measures remain essential.

How To Keep Safe in Bishop Middleham

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s crucial to remain vigilant, especially when out alone. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking in poorly lit areas at night. Secure your vehicle, taking precautions against theft – consider a steering wheel lock and parking in well-lit areas. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. Ensure your home is well-lit and consider installing security measures such as alarms and reinforced locks. Finally, join or support local neighbourhood watch schemes to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility for safety.

Crime in Bishop Middleham exhibits varying patterns throughout the day. Burglaries are most likely to occur in the afternoon, accounting for 18% of incidents during this period. Vehicle crime shows a significant peak in the evening (6pm - 12am), representing 27% of incidents. The night hours (12am - 6am) also see a notable prevalence of vehicle crime (54%). This suggests heightened vulnerability during these times, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures.

Compared to surrounding areas, Bishop Middleham exhibits a lower crime rate than Cornforth (98.5 per 1,000) and Ferryhill (140.8 per 1,000), but a higher rate than Fishburn (75.3 per 1,000) and Sedgefield (69.4 per 1,000). This suggests that while Bishop Middleham is generally safer than some nearby settlements, there are still areas within the region that experience higher levels of criminal activity, highlighting the importance of community vigilance and crime prevention initiatives.

Traditional CCTV systems often serve as a passive record of events, capturing footage after a burglary has occurred. However, a proactive approach to home security can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim. Consider scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system that detects threats at your property boundary, before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence monitors all angles simultaneously, while DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles. The visible presence of scOS acts as a powerful deterrent, making burglars reconsider their actions – most will decide within those crucial first 60 seconds. Pattern learning identifies your family and routines, ensuring alerts are only triggered by genuine threats. Reading crime statistics is one thing; protecting your home with a system like scOS is another.