Determining the precise underlying causes of crime in any area, including Dover, is a complex undertaking. While a definitive list of causes is impossible to compile, we can examine the available data to understand the context. Dover, a Local Authority District (LAD) with a population of 119,768, currently exhibits a crime rate of 91.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is remarkably close to the UK national average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000. However, the area's safety score of 78/100, compared to a UK average of 79/100, suggests residents perceive a slightly lower level of safety.
It's crucial to understand that a crime rate itself doesn't reveal why crimes occur. Factors contributing to crime are often intertwined and can include socioeconomic conditions, levels of deprivation, availability of opportunities, community cohesion, and the effectiveness of law enforcement. Data regarding these specific factors for Dover is not available within the provided information. The similarity of Dover’s crime rate to the UK average suggests that national trends impacting crime – such as changes in policing strategies, economic fluctuations, or demographic shifts – are likely also affecting Dover.
Furthermore, the safety score provides a valuable, albeit subjective, indicator. A lower safety score may reflect concerns about specific types of crime, perceptions of safety in certain areas, or a general feeling of insecurity among residents. Without further data, it's impossible to pinpoint the precise reasons for this perception. It's important to note that a crime rate is a statistical measure and doesn’t fully represent the lived experience of safety within a community. It’s crucial to consider the types of crime occurring and their impact on residents, rather than solely focusing on the raw numbers.