The question of why Matlock experiences a slightly elevated rate of violent crime compared to the national average requires careful consideration. Matlock, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the Derbyshire Dales, has a population of 11,179 and a crime rate of 94.0 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is marginally higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the area maintains a safety score of 79/100 – identical to the UK average – the slightly higher crime rate warrants examination.
It’s important to note that a higher crime rate doesn’t automatically equate to a less safe environment. Crime rates are complex and influenced by a variety of factors, many of which are difficult to isolate. Limited data is available to pinpoint specific drivers for Matlock’s crime rate beyond the raw statistics. However, potential contributing factors common to similar areas can be considered. These include socio-economic conditions, population density, and the availability of support services. Areas with higher population density, even within a relatively rural county like Derbyshire, can experience increased opportunities for crime simply due to the greater number of interactions and potential conflicts.
Furthermore, the types of crime recorded also play a role. The overall crime rate is a composite figure; a rise in property crime, for example, can impact the overall rate without necessarily reflecting a significant increase in violent crime. Without more granular data on the specific types of violent crime prevalent in Matlock, it's challenging to determine the precise drivers. It's also crucial to remember that reported crime rates can be influenced by factors such as changes in police reporting practices or increased public awareness and willingness to report incidents.
While the safety score of 79/100 suggests a generally positive perception of safety among residents, the higher crime rate indicates a potential area for improvement. Further investigation and targeted interventions, informed by detailed local data, would be necessary to fully understand and address the underlying causes of the slightly elevated violent crime rate in Matlock.