The visibility of the police presence in Baslow, Derbyshire, is a complex topic tied to response times, crime rates, and overall safety perceptions. Baslow, a built-up area (BUA) with a population of 1610, exhibits a crime rate of 55.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the United Kingdom's average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment compared to the national picture. The area also boasts a safety score of 88 out of 100, significantly above the UK average of 79, indicating a positive perception of safety amongst residents.
However, the crucial aspect of police presence is often reflected in response times. Data from 2024 reveals a median immediate response time of 19 minutes for Baslow. An 'immediate response' typically covers incidents requiring urgent attention, such as those involving immediate danger to life or serious injury. The median priority response time, which applies to incidents requiring attention but not demanding an immediate response, stands at 51 minutes. This timeframe is important to consider when assessing how quickly police can address non-emergency situations.
It's important to understand that these are median figures, meaning half of responses are quicker, and half are slower. Factors influencing response times include the location’s rural nature, the availability of officers, and the severity of incidents occurring elsewhere in the Derbyshire Dales. While the lower crime rate is reassuring, the response times highlight a potential area for consideration. Residents should be aware of how to report incidents appropriately – using online reporting tools for non-emergencies can help alleviate pressure on immediate response resources. Further information on reporting procedures can be found on the Derbyshire Constabulary website.
Ultimately, the perceived visibility of the police presence is a combination of the overall crime statistics, the safety score, and the speed with which officers can respond to incidents. While Baslow presents a positive picture in many respects, awareness of response times is key to understanding the realities of police presence in the area.