Dymchurch Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Dymchurch, within Folkestone and Hythe, indicate a rate of 56.1 crimes per 1,000 residents over the period from January 2025 to December 2025. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. The overall trend shows a decrease in crime over the data period, falling by 7.4% year-on-year. While the safety score stands at a respectable 85 out of 100, understanding the specific types of crime prevalent in the area is essential for informed decision-making and proactive safety measures. The data highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and community engagement to maintain this positive trend.

The crime landscape in Dymchurch is shaped by its coastal location and relatively small population. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest proportion of reported crimes, accounting for 53.8% of all incidents, totaling 107 crimes. This suggests a need for focused community safety initiatives. Other theft, including burglary and shoplifting, contributes 10.1% of crimes, while anti-social behaviour represents a further 10.1%, indicating potential challenges related to public order. The presence of criminal damage and arson (6.0%) and drug-related offences (5.0%) also requires attention. The lower number of vehicle crimes (4.0%) and robberies (1.0%) compared to other categories suggests that these areas may be receiving adequate focus. Understanding the interplay of these factors is vital for targeted crime prevention strategies within Dymchurch.

The decreasing crime rate of 7.4% year-on-year indicates a positive trend for Dymchurch. Examining monthly data reveals fluctuations; January 2025 saw a rate of 3.4 per 1,000, rising to a peak of 7.3 per 1,000 in May 2025. A significant drop occurred in October 2025, with a rate of just 2.5 per 1,000. The subsequent increase in November 2025 to 5.9 per 1,000, followed by a return to 3.4 in December, suggests seasonal variations or potentially reactive measures impacting crime levels. These fluctuations underscore the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive crime prevention strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Dymchurch

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences in Dymchurch, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Avoid walking through poorly lit areas and consider carrying a personal alarm. With ‘other theft’ also being a notable concern, secure your valuables and be mindful of your belongings in public spaces. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. Finally, given the presence of anti-social behaviour, consider joining local community watch schemes to foster a sense of collective responsibility and shared vigilance.

Crimes in Dymchurch tend to follow a pattern influenced by daily routines and the area’s coastal nature. During the mornings (6am-12pm), theft is more prevalent, likely linked to commercial activity. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees a continuation of this trend, with theft remaining a significant factor. Evenings (6pm-12am) witness a shift, with a rise in vehicle crime and a greater proportion of ‘other’ crimes, possibly related to increased social activity. However, the night hours (12am-6am) demonstrate a concerning pattern, with a higher incidence of burglary and a substantial portion of vehicle crime, suggesting a vulnerability during these hours.

Dymchurch’s crime rate of 56.1 per 1,000 places it between similar coastal communities. St Mary’s Bay exhibits a slightly lower rate at 51.4 per 1,000, while New Romney faces a higher rate of 97.7 per 1,000. Lympne, with a rate of 24.3 per 1,000, and Littlestone-on-Sea at 40.2 per 1,000, demonstrate comparatively safer environments. These variations highlight the influence of local factors on crime rates across the region.

Traditional CCTV systems provide valuable footage after a crime has occurred. However, the evolving threat landscape demands a more proactive approach. Consider a system like scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, which detects potential threats at your property boundary – before they escalate. scOS’s multi-camera intelligence monitors your property continuously, instantly verifying deliveries and recognising familiar faces, while DVLA vehicle verification flags suspicious vehicles. This level of proactive protection can be the difference between a burglary and a deterrent. Most burglars make a decision within 60 seconds; the visible deterrence of a professional security system like scOS can make them move on.