The level of police presence and response in Woolaston, a built-up area within the Forest of Dean, is a key factor in the community's overall safety. Woolaston has a population of 1675 and, importantly, exhibits a crime rate of 40.6 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safe environment. The area also boasts a safety score of 90 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, further reinforcing this perception.
When incidents do occur, the police response times are a crucial indicator of effectiveness. Data from 2024 reveals a mean immediate response time of 15 minutes. An ‘immediate response’ typically refers to situations requiring urgent intervention, such as potential threats to life or serious ongoing crimes. However, the mean priority response time is considerably longer, averaging 91 minutes. A ‘priority response’ covers incidents requiring police attention but not necessitating an immediate presence, such as investigations or follow-up actions.
It's important to note that response times can be affected by various factors including the severity of the incident, the availability of resources, and the geographic challenges of the Forest of Dean area. While the 91-minute priority response time might seem lengthy, it is consistent with standard operational procedures for non-emergency situations. The lower crime rate in Woolaston compared to the national average likely contributes to these response times being manageable. Residents should be aware of the definitions of ‘immediate’ and ‘priority’ responses and contact the police appropriately based on the urgency of the situation. Further information on reporting crime and understanding response categories can be obtained from the Gloucestershire Constabulary’s website.