Determining the absolute accuracy of crime data for any location, including Harlech in Gwynedd, is complex. However, we can assess the reliability of the reported figures based on available data. The reported crime rate for Harlech is 53.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This suggests Harlech is comparatively safer than many areas in the United Kingdom.
It’s important to understand that crime data collection relies on reported incidents. Factors such as public trust in the police, willingness to report crimes, and the effectiveness of crime prevention measures can influence the reported figures. A lower reported crime rate doesn't necessarily mean crime is absent; it could indicate underreporting or a genuinely safer environment. Conversely, a higher rate doesn't automatically signify a dangerous area.
Harlech’s population is recorded as 1805. With such a small population, even a relatively small number of reported crimes can significantly impact the per capita crime rate. This means that fluctuations in reported incidents can lead to more noticeable changes in the crime rate compared to larger areas. While the crime rate provides a useful comparative metric, interpreting it requires caution.
Furthermore, Harlech boasts a safety score of 89 out of 100, which is considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This safety score likely incorporates various factors beyond just reported crime, such as perceptions of safety, community cohesion, and the presence of visible policing. This higher safety score lends further weight to the conclusion that Harlech is a relatively safe place to live, despite the availability of numerical crime data.