Upwood Crime Rate

Upwood's crime profile stands out for its combination of overall safety and a sharp 400% YoY increase in drug-related offences. Despite a crime rate 44.7% below the UK average and a safety score of 89/100, the area faces a worrying surge in drug activity. This contrast highlights the need for targeted interventions while maintaining the area's strong safety record.

Upwood is a small built-up area within Huntingdonshire, likely characterized by a mix of residential properties and local amenities. Its relatively low population (1,591) and proximity to nearby towns may contribute to a crime profile influenced by commuter activity and community dynamics. The area's safety score of 89/100 suggests a generally secure environment, though specific factors like vehicle crime and drug-related incidents require closer attention.

The most surprising finding in Upwood's crime profile is the 9% above UK average rate for vehicle crime (5.0 per 1,000 vs 4.6). This could be attributed to the area's potential proximity to commuter parking hubs or major roads, which may attract opportunistic thefts. Violence and sexual offences. YoY, remain 49% below the UK average, likely due to the area's lower population density and community cohesion. Anti-social behaviour, at 36% below the UK average, may reflect the effectiveness of local policing or community engagement. Meanwhile, the sharp 400% YoY increase in drugs offences—despite still being 2% below the UK average—suggests a possible shift in local dynamics, such as increased availability or changing patterns of substance use.

Crime in Upwood has decreased by 5.9% YoY, but this masks sharp increases in specific categories. Drug-related offences have surged by 400%, the most significant rise, though still 2% below the UK average. Violence and sexual offences have increased by 44.4%, likely linked to seasonal factors or social dynamics. Conversely, anti-social behaviour and criminal damage have declined, reflecting improved local policing or community efforts. The monthly trend shows a peak in November 2025 (9.4 per 1,000), possibly driven by holiday-related activity or transient populations.

How To Keep Safe in Upwood

Vehicle crime, at 5.0 per 1,000 (9% above UK average), is the most relevant concern. Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving valuables in sight. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), so secure unattended items. The 400% YoY rise in drugs offences suggests heightened awareness of illicit activity; report suspicious behaviour promptly. Upwood's low burglary rate (2.5 per 1,000) means standard locks suffice, but consider additional deterrents for high-value items.

Crime in Upwood exhibits distinct temporal patterns. Vehicle crime peaks overnight (12am–6am), aligning with the 52% of incidents recorded during these hours. Theft is most common in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), potentially linked to retail activity or unsecured properties during peak hours. Other crimes, such as criminal damage, tend to occur in the evening (6pm–12am), possibly influenced by nightlife or social gatherings. The area’s low burglary rate (2.5 per 1,000) may be due to the absence of high-value targets or robust community watch initiatives.

Compared to nearby areas, Upwood is significantly safer. Bury (Huntingdonshire) has a 28% higher crime rate (64.5 per 1,000 vs 50.3), while Ramsey's rate is 123% higher (112.2 per 1,000). These differences may reflect urban-rural divides, with Upwood's lower population and community-oriented environment contributing to its safer profile.

For Upwood residents, proactive measures against vehicle crime—9% above the UK average—are critical, scOS's AI-powered perimeter monitoring distinguishes between regular visitors and potential threats, while DVLA vehicle registration checks flag stolen or cloned plates. Automated lighting and speaker activation deter intruders, addressing the 5.0 per 1,000 vehicle crime rate. These features align with Upwood's need for targeted, non-intrusive security without compromising its low-crime environment.