Shaftesbury, a built-up area within Dorset, exhibits a crime rate significantly lower than both the national average and the average for Dorset itself. According to available data, Shaftesbury’s crime rate stands at 61.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. This contrasts sharply with the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. Essentially, you are less likely to experience crime in Shaftesbury than in many other parts of the country.
To put this into perspective, a crime rate of 61.2 per 1,000 means that for every 1,000 people living in Shaftesbury, approximately 61 crimes are reported. While this figure reflects reported crimes and doesn't account for all instances of criminal activity, it provides a valuable indicator of the area's safety. The UK average of 91.6 per 1,000 suggests a considerably higher prevalence of crime across the nation as a whole.
Beyond the raw crime rate, Shaftesbury also boasts a commendable safety score of 87 out of 100. This score, compared to the UK average of 79, further reinforces the perception of Shaftesbury as a relatively safe place to live. A higher safety score indicates a lower perceived risk of crime and a greater sense of security among residents.
It’s important to note that crime statistics are complex and influenced by various factors including population density, reporting practices, and socio-economic conditions. However, the data consistently demonstrates that Shaftesbury's crime rate is notably lower than the UK average, making it a comparatively safer area within the country. The higher safety score provides additional confidence in the area's security, contributing to a positive living environment for its residents. Further investigation into specific crime types within Shaftesbury would provide a more nuanced understanding, but the overall picture points to a lower risk of crime compared to the national average.