The question of how safe Sturminster Marshall is at night is a common one, and thankfully, the available data offers some insight. Sturminster Marshall, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Dorset with a population of 2578, has a crime rate of 39.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment.
Sturminster Marshall also boasts a safety score of 90 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. This score indicates a higher level of perceived safety amongst residents. However, the night safety score paints a slightly different picture, registering at 15 out of 100. This is considerably lower than the overall safety score and suggests that feelings of safety decrease after dark.
Looking at specific crime types, the violent crime rate in Sturminster Marshall is 16.7 per 1,000 residents. While this is still a concerning statistic, it's crucial to remember that this is a rate, and not a total number of incidents. It’s important to contextualise this within the broader picture of the area’s overall safety and compare it to the UK average.
The lower night safety score might be attributable to a number of factors, such as reduced visibility, fewer people on the streets, or perceived increased risk. It doesn't necessarily mean that crime is rampant at night, but it does highlight that residents may feel less secure during those hours. It's worth noting that 'perceived safety' can be influenced by factors beyond just crime statistics.
Ultimately, while the overall crime statistics for Sturminster Marshall are reassuring when compared to the UK average, the lower night safety score warrants caution. Being aware of your surroundings and taking standard safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas and travelling with others, are always advisable.