The question of whether there are noticeable trends in shoplifting within Woodbridge is a pertinent one, and the data provides a clear picture. Currently, shoplifting incidents are decreasing in Woodbridge. Based on available data, the crime rate in Woodbridge is 50.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively higher level of crime overall within the area.
However, the crucial point is the trend. Shoplifting incidents in Woodbridge have decreased by 8.0% year-on-year. This represents a positive shift and indicates that efforts to address shoplifting are having some effect. It’s important to contextualise this within the broader crime statistics. Woodbridge’s overall safety score is a respectable 88 out of 100, significantly higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that while crime levels are comparatively high, residents generally feel safe. The population of Woodbridge, defined as a Built-Up Area (BUA) in East Suffolk, is 9559, which is a factor when considering crime rates per capita.
While the decrease is positive, the higher-than-average crime rate compared to the UK still warrants ongoing attention. Businesses in Woodbridge, particularly retailers, should be aware of this and consider preventative measures. These might include increased staff presence, improved CCTV coverage, and clear signage regarding shoplifting penalties. Reporting any suspicious activity to the police promptly is also crucial to maintaining this downward trend and contributing to the overall safety of Woodbridge. Further analysis would require a deeper dive into the types of goods targeted in shoplifting incidents and the demographics of those involved, but the current data highlights a positive, albeit cautious, trend.