The question of whether shoplifting is a significant problem for businesses in South Hayling requires a careful examination of available data. Based on the provided information, South Hayling, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Havant, has a population of 16,227. The area's crime rate stands at 69.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This figure is notably lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000.
However, the relevance of this overall crime rate to the specific issue of shoplifting isn't immediately clear. While the overall crime rate is lower than average, it doesn't definitively state the prevalence of shoplifting. Shoplifting is typically classified under 'Theft' within broader crime statistics. Further, more granular data would be needed to isolate shoplifting incidents specifically.
It's important to consider the area’s safety score, which is 82 out of 100. This score is above the UK average of 79, suggesting a generally safe environment. A higher safety score often correlates with a lower perceived risk of crime, including shoplifting. Nevertheless, even areas with high safety scores experience instances of theft.
The lower overall crime rate in South Hayling compared to the UK average could indicate that shoplifting is less of a widespread problem than in other areas. However, without specific shoplifting data, it's impossible to definitively say. Businesses in South Hayling should remain vigilant and proactive in preventing theft, regardless of the overall crime rate.