The recent decline in crime rates in Clayton-le-Moors is undoubtedly influencing residents' feelings of safety, although the full picture is more nuanced. The area, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Hyndburn with a population of 9919, has seen its crime rate decrease by 13.4% year-on-year. While this is positive news, it’s important to understand how this translates to overall perceptions of safety.
Currently, Clayton-le-Moors has a crime rate of 107.2 per 1,000 residents. This remains slightly higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. The violent crime rate specifically stands at 40.2 per 1,000, which also exceeds the national average. This difference, coupled with a safety score of 75/100 (compared to a UK average of 79/100), suggests that while the downward trend in crime is beneficial, residents’ perceptions of safety may not have fully caught up to the improvements.
The year-on-year decrease of 13.4% indicates a real reduction in criminal activity. However, it’s crucial to remember that a single year's data provides a snapshot in time. Sustained reductions over several years would provide a more definitive indication of a long-term trend and likely lead to a greater shift in residents’ feelings of safety. The impact of this decrease is likely felt differently across various demographics and neighbourhoods within Clayton-le-Moors; some areas may experience a more pronounced sense of security than others.
It's also worth noting that feelings of safety are influenced by factors beyond just crime statistics. These can include visibility of policing, community cohesion, and media reporting. While the declining crime trend is a significant factor, it’s not the sole determinant of how safe residents feel. Further improvements in these other areas could amplify the positive impact of the falling crime rate and contribute to a stronger sense of security within the community.