Gillingham (Dorset) Crime Rate February 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Gillingham (Dorset) recorded a crime rate of 3.6 per 1,000 residents in February 2025, a figure that is 46.3% below the UK average of 6.7 per 1,000. This marked improvement is consistent with the seasonal context of February, a winter month typically associated with reduced outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull in social and economic rhythms. The area’s crime profile was dominated by violent crimes, which accounted for 41.5% of all reported incidents, followed by other theft (17.1%) and shoplifting (14.6%). These proportions align with the character of Gillingham as a built-up area within Dorset, where retail presence may contribute to shoplifting rates, while the lower population density likely limits the spread of more severe crimes. The overall decline in crime relative to the UK average is notable, particularly given the persistent challenges faced by many UK towns in maintaining low rates. Violence and sexual offences, though the most frequent category, remain 36% below the UK average for this type, suggesting that local policing strategies or community initiatives may be playing a role. The relatively low rates of property crimes—particularly burglary, vehicle crime, and criminal damage—further reinforce the area’s safety profile, though the 30% increase in other theft cases compared to the UK average indicates a need for targeted interventions. The seasonal context of February, with its shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures, may have contributed to the subdued crime environment, as outdoor activity and social interactions typically decline during this time of year. This data illustrates a community that, while not immune to crime, has achieved a commendable level of safety compared to national benchmarks.

February 2025 marked a notable 66.7% reduction in public order offences, dropping from three incidents to one, a change that may reflect heightened community engagement or improved policing in high-traffic areas. Anti-social behaviour also fell sharply by 66.7%, from nine to three incidents, suggesting a potential shift in local dynamics or increased reporting of such issues. Meanwhile, violent crimes accounted for 41.5% of all incidents, a proportion that remains 36% below the UK average for this category. This contrast with the 30% increase in other theft cases—where Gillingham’s rate is 30% above the UK average—highlights a nuanced crime picture. The rise in burglary (+100%) and vehicle crime (+100%) from zero to one and two incidents respectively, though small in absolute terms, signals areas warranting closer attention. For residents, the 41 total crimes reported over 28 days translates to a manageable daily risk, though targeted vigilance in areas prone to theft may be prudent.

February 2025 saw Gillingham’s crime rate fall to 3.6 per 1,000 residents, a 19.6% decrease from the previous month’s rate of 4.5 per 1,000. This reduction aligns with the seasonal context of February, a time of year typically marked by lower outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull in social events. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 276 residents, a figure that underscores the relatively low exposure to crime in this built-up area. Daily crime statistics reveal that the area experienced an average of one reported crime per day in February, a rate that remains well below the UK average for similar-sized communities. When viewed through the lens of population, the crime rate’s decline suggests that local efforts to maintain public safety may be resonating. The monthly exposure figure, while low, is a snapshot of activity over 28 days and should be interpreted alongside broader trends rather than as an isolated measure.