The question of what is driving the high rate of violence and sexual offences in Wisbech St Mary, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Fenland, is complex. While the overall crime rate stands at 62.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, this figure appears elevated when considering the area's population of just 1889. For context, the United Kingdom’s average crime rate is 91.6 per 1,000. It's important to note that a higher crime rate per capita doesn't automatically equate to a more dangerous area; it simply reflects a greater concentration of reported incidents.
Interestingly, Wisbech St Mary holds a safety score of 85/100, which is above the UK average of 79. This suggests that residents perceive the area as relatively safe, despite the higher reported crime figures. This discrepancy between reported crime and perceived safety could be due to a number of factors, including increased reporting rates due to community vigilance, a smaller population base amplifying the effect of even a moderate number of incidents, or variations in how crime is recorded and classified.
Without further detailed data on the types of violence and sexual offences occurring in Wisbech St Mary, pinpointing the specific drivers is difficult. It’s possible that specific local factors, such as socio-economic conditions, community cohesion, or the presence of vulnerable individuals, are contributing to the observed crime pattern. The small population size also means that individual incidents can have a disproportionate impact on the overall crime rate per 1,000.
Furthermore, it is crucial to consider that crime statistics are often influenced by reporting practices and police recording methods, which can change over time. While the data provides a snapshot in time, it doesn't necessarily reflect a long-term trend or the underlying causes of the reported offences. It’s also important to acknowledge that a high safety score doesn't negate the need for ongoing vigilance and community efforts to address crime and enhance safety.