Billingshurst Crime Rate

Billingshurst's crime rate of 52.9 per 1,000 residents places it 41.9% below the UK average, but the sharp 62% year-on-year rise in 'Other crime' highlights an emerging challenge. While the area's low burglary rate (0.8 per 1,000) and high safety score (88/100) suggest a generally secure environment, this increase in unclassified incidents may reflect underreported issues or shifts in local dynamics that warrant closer attention.

Billingshurst is a historic built-up area within Horsham, characterised by a mix of residential properties, small businesses, and community-focused amenities. Its low crime rate and high safety score likely reflect a strong sense of community, lower population density compared to urban centres, and proximity to open countryside. These factors may reduce opportunities for certain crimes, such as burglary or vehicle-related offences, while still allowing for local social interactions that contribute to anti-social behaviour.

The most surprising finding is the 62% year-on-year increase in 'Other crime', despite Billingshurst's overall crime rate being 41.9% below the UK average. This category's rise may reflect unreported or less visible incidents, or shifts in policing focus. Violence and sexual offences, though still 37% below the UK average, have risen slightly (+6% YoY), possibly due to seasonal factors or isolated incidents. Anti-social behaviour remains low (30% below UK average), likely due to the area's close-knit community and active Neighbourhood Watch schemes. Public order crimes are also below average, influenced by the area's limited nightlife and lower youth population compared to urban centres.

Billingshurst's crime rate has remained stable (-2.0% YoY) over the past year, with the most notable change being the 62% increase in 'Other crime'. This rise contrasts with the 66.7% drop in bicycle theft, which may reflect seasonal factors or improved security measures for cyclists. The overall stability in crime, despite the surge in unclassified incidents, suggests that targeted initiatives have helped maintain the area's 41.9% below UK average rate. The monthly trend shows a clear peak in May (6.2 per 1,000) and trough in November (3.3 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal activity patterns and local events.

How To Keep Safe in Billingshurst

Residents should focus on mitigating risks linked to the sharp rise in 'Other crime' (62% YoY). Secure vehicles in well-lit areas to address the 31% of vehicle crime occurring overnight. For households, scOS's AI monitoring can help detect unusual activity, aligning with the 54.6% lower property crime rate in Billingshurst. Community engagement remains vital, as the area's 30% lower anti-social behaviour rate compared to the UK average suggests collective vigilance is effective. Report any suspicious incidents promptly, especially those falling under the 'Other crime' category, to help identify emerging patterns.

Crime in Billingshurst follows distinct patterns tied to daily rhythms. Theft peaks in the afternoon (55% of cases between 12pm-6pm), likely linked to shopping activity and open retail spaces. Vehicle crime spikes at night (31% of cases between 12am-6am), possibly due to isolated parking areas and reduced visibility. Other crime is most common in the evening (59% of cases between 6pm-12am), suggesting a connection to social interactions or unreported incidents. Burglary, though rare, occurs more frequently at night (11% of cases), aligning with typical patterns for residential areas.

Wisborough Green has an 11% higher crime rate (58.7 per 1,000) than Billingshurst, despite both areas being within the same local authority. This difference may stem from Wisborough Green's slightly higher population density and proximity to major transport routes, which could increase opportunities for anti-social behaviour and vehicle-related crimes. Billingshurst's lower crime rate likely reflects its more dispersed residential layout and stronger community cohesion.

For Billingshurst residents, scOS offers a proportionate security solution tailored to the area's low-crime profile. With burglary rates 75% below the UK average, proactive deterrents like AI-powered perimeter monitoring can provide additional reassurance without overcomplicating daily life, scOS distinguishes between household members and potential intruders, reducing false alarms while maintaining a visible security presence. Its DVLA vehicle registration verification feature is particularly relevant given the 69% lower vehicle crime rate compared to the UK average, helping to flag suspicious vehicles before incidents occur.