The question of whether Sherborne is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced understanding of the available data. While Sherborne, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Dorset with a population of 12,064, generally exhibits a positive safety profile, the specific indicator of 'night safety' presents a contrasting picture.
Sherborne's overall crime rate stands at 54.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a relatively safe environment compared to many other areas in the United Kingdom. The overall safety score for Sherborne is 88 out of 100, again surpassing the UK average of 79. The violent crime rate is 17.5 per 1,000, which also sits below the national average.
However, the 'night safety' score paints a different story. Sherborne’s night safety score is a concerning 13 out of 100. This metric specifically assesses perceptions and reported incidents related to safety during nighttime hours. A low score suggests that individuals may feel less safe or that there is a higher incidence of crime occurring after dark. It's important to note that this score is based on various factors including reported crime, perceived safety, and environmental factors like lighting and visibility, and isn't solely based on recorded incidents.
It’s crucial to remember that crime rates are statistical averages. Individual experiences can vary significantly. While the overall crime rate is lower than the UK average, the low night safety score indicates that walking alone at night may carry a higher degree of risk than during the daytime. It’s advisable to be extra vigilant, stick to well-lit and populated routes, and consider travelling with others whenever possible.