Anti-social behaviour can significantly erode the feeling of safety within a community, and Burton upon Trent is no exception. While it's difficult to directly correlate anti-social behaviour with specific crime statistics, it often acts as a precursor to more serious offences and creates an atmosphere of unease.
Burton upon Trent, classified as a BUA (Burton upon Trent in East Staffordshire) with a population of 71,239, currently has a crime rate of 100.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This figure is slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a potentially elevated level of concern regarding safety. Furthermore, Burton upon Trent’s safety score stands at 75 out of 100, which is below the UK average of 79. This lower score, in conjunction with the crime rate, indicates that residents may perceive a lower level of safety compared to the national average.
Anti-social behaviour, encompassing activities like vandalism, noise disturbances, public intoxication, and minor acts of aggression, can contribute to this perception. Even when these actions don't result in serious injury or property damage, they can create a climate of fear and anxiety, making residents feel vulnerable and less secure in their own neighbourhoods. This can lead to a reluctance to engage in community activities, reduced social interaction, and a general decline in quality of life.
The link between anti-social behaviour and the reported crime rate isn't always straightforward. However, research often shows that areas experiencing higher levels of anti-social behaviour also tend to experience higher rates of more serious crimes over time. Addressing anti-social behaviour proactively is therefore crucial in preventing escalation to more serious offences and improving the overall safety and well-being of the community. The elevated crime rate relative to the UK average, coupled with the safety score, highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and reassure residents.