The trend for violent crime in Folkestone, specifically within the Folkestone and Hythe BUA (Built-Up Area) encompassing Folkestone, is currently considered stable. Year-on-year (YoY), the violent crime rate has decreased by a modest 1.0%. However, it's important to contextualise this figure. The crime rate in Folkestone stands at 119.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Understanding what 'violent crime' encompasses is also vital. This category includes a range of offences, from assaults and robberies to more serious crimes. While the 1.0% decrease indicates a slight improvement, the overall rate remains a concern, suggesting that Folkestone's safety score of 72 out of 100 is lower than the UK average of 79. A safety score considers factors beyond just crime rates, but the correlation is significant.
The population of the Folkestone BUA is 52,489, meaning the 119.2 crime rate represents a considerable number of incidents. It is important to note that crime rates are complex and can be influenced by various factors including socioeconomic conditions, policing strategies, and reporting practices. A stable trend doesn't necessarily mean the situation is ideal; it simply indicates that the rate hasn't significantly increased or decreased in the period examined. The stability observed may be due to various interventions or simply a natural fluctuation.
While a decrease is positive, it's crucial for residents and local authorities to remain vigilant and continue to work together to address the underlying causes of crime and improve overall safety in Folkestone. Continued monitoring of crime trends and proactive community engagement are essential for maintaining a safe and secure environment.