Weymouth's crime rate, when compared to the rest of Dorset and the UK average, presents a nuanced picture. The data indicates a crime rate of 100 crimes per 1,000 residents within the Weymouth Built-Up Area (BUA). This figure is higher than the UK average of 91.6 crimes per 1,000 residents.
To provide further context, let's examine the crime rates of nearby areas. Chickerell has a crime rate of 49.3 per 1,000, significantly lower than Weymouth. Remarkably, both Osmington and Broadmayne report crime rates of 0.0 per 1,000 residents, indicating exceptionally low levels of reported crime. Fortuneswell, another nearby area, exhibits a crime rate of 73.1 per 1,000, which is lower than Weymouth but still above the UK average.
It's important to consider that crime rates are just one aspect of safety. Weymouth's safety score is 78 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79. This score likely takes into account factors beyond reported crime, such as perceptions of safety, levels of antisocial behaviour, and the availability of local resources. A lower safety score alongside a higher crime rate suggests that residents might have concerns about their safety or experience a diminished sense of security.
Understanding the types of crimes reported is also crucial. While the data doesn't specify the types of crimes contributing to Weymouth's rate, examining local police reports and community forums can provide more insight. Factors such as population density, socio-economic conditions, and the presence of tourist activity can all influence crime rates. The proximity of areas with drastically different crime rates, like Osmington and Fortuneswell, highlights how local factors can create significant variations within Dorset.