The increasing crime trend in Upwood is understandably impacting residents' feelings of safety, although the overall picture is nuanced. While Upwood, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Huntingdonshire with a population of 1591, currently boasts a crime rate of 60.3 per 1,000, this figure is lower than the UK average of 91.6. However, the concerning factor is the recent trend: crime has increased by 21.5% year-on-year.
This upward trend naturally leads to questions about how safe residents feel. Fortunately, Upwood maintains a respectable safety score of 87 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. This suggests that, despite the rising crime rate, residents' perceptions of safety remain relatively positive, potentially reflecting a continued trust in local authorities or a perceived low risk of being directly affected.
It's also important to consider the specific types of crime. The violent crime rate in Upwood stands at 19.5 per 1,000, which, while a significant element, needs to be viewed alongside the overall crime rate. The increase in crime, particularly when coupled with even a relatively low violent crime rate, can erode confidence and generate anxiety within a community. The feeling of safety is often more influenced by the perception of risk than the absolute number of incidents.
It’s crucial to remember that statistics only tell part of the story. Individual experiences and local knowledge often play a more significant role in shaping feelings of safety. Further investigation into the types of crimes increasing would be beneficial in understanding the full impact on residents’ feelings of security and allow for targeted preventative measures.