The perception of safety in South Hetton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in County Durham with a population of 1463, is influenced by its crime statistics. Currently, the crime rate stands at 73.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. To put this in context, the UK national average crime rate is 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates that South Hetton experiences a comparatively lower rate of crime than the average across the United Kingdom.
However, statistics alone don't always reflect the full picture. While the crime rate is lower, individual perceptions of safety are shaped by a range of factors including personal experiences, media exposure, and community feeling. A safety score of 82/100 further suggests a relatively positive perception of safety within the area, exceeding the UK average of 79. This score likely reflects a combination of the lower crime rate and potentially other factors contributing to a sense of security, such as strong community bonds or visible policing.
It’s important to note that crime statistics represent reported incidents and may not capture the full extent of criminal activity. Furthermore, the nature of crimes committed can significantly influence how safe residents feel. While the overall crime rate is lower, the types of crimes occurring, and how effectively they are addressed, play a crucial role in shaping perceptions. The specific types of crimes contributing to the 73.1 rate are not detailed in the available data, so a more granular analysis would be needed to understand the specific concerns within South Hetton. The relative safety score of 82/100 provides a more holistic view of safety perception, suggesting that residents generally feel secure, despite the crime statistics.