The question of whether it’s safe to walk home alone at night in Wilburton, East Cambridgeshire, is a reasonable one and deserves a data-driven response. Based on available information, Wilburton presents a mixed picture.
Wilburton, a built-up area (BUA) with a population of 1828, has a crime rate of 74.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. However, a crucial distinction arises when considering the ‘Night Safety Score.’ This score, which measures residents’ perception of safety at night, is only 8/100 for Wilburton, significantly below the UK average of 79.
Furthermore, the violent crime rate in Wilburton stands at 27.9 per 1,000, which, while not dramatically higher than some areas, should still be considered in assessing the potential risk. It’s important to note that these figures represent reported crimes and may not fully capture the extent of all incidents.
The lower overall crime rate suggests that Wilburton isn't experiencing a high volume of criminal activity when compared to the national average. However, the exceptionally low night safety score highlights a concerning perception of safety among residents. This discrepancy between the crime rate and the safety score might be due to factors not reflected in the raw crime data, such as street lighting, isolated areas, or local concerns.
Ultimately, the safety of walking home alone at night is subjective and depends on individual circumstances and comfort levels. While the raw crime statistics offer a degree of reassurance, the low night safety score warrants extra vigilance and proactive safety measures. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and inform someone of your route and estimated arrival time.