Isles of Scilly Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly demonstrate a notably low overall crime rate of 32.1 per 1,000 residents per year, positioning the area as significantly safer compared to the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000. With an impressive safety score of 92 out of 100, far exceeding the UK average of 78, the islands are generally a very secure place to live. However, the latest data indicates an increasing trend, with a 35.7% rise in total crimes year-over-year. This introduction sets the context for a more detailed examination of crime types, trends, and comparisons with nearby regions.

About the Isles of Scilly: Factors Influencing Crime Statistics

The unique characteristics of the Isles of Scilly play a significant role in shaping its exceptionally low crime statistics and high safety score. As an archipelago located off the coast of Cornwall, the islands are predominantly rural and benefit from their geographical isolation. This remoteness naturally limits opportunities for certain types of crime and reduces the transient criminal population often associated with more accessible urban centres.

With a small resident population of 2,366, the islands foster a strong sense of community, where residents are often known to each other, contributing to informal social control and a collective vigilance against crime. While tourism is a major industry, bringing visitors to the islands, the nature of this tourism is generally family-oriented and focused on outdoor activities, which typically does not contribute to high rates of anti-social behaviour or serious crime. The absence of major industrial areas, large nightlife districts, or significant transport hubs further contributes to a peaceful environment. Economic factors, while challenging in a small island economy, tend to support a stable community, with less of the socio-economic disparity that can sometimes fuel crime in other areas. These combined factors create an environment where safety is a defining characteristic of life on the Isles of Scilly.

Crime Type Analysis in Isles of Scilly

An analysis of crime types in the Isles of Scilly reveals that 'Violence and sexual offences' constitute the most significant category, accounting for 44.7% of all reported crimes, at a rate of 14.4 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by 'Other theft' at 11.8% (3.8 per 1,000), and both 'Shoplifting' and 'Criminal damage and arson' each representing 10.5% of total crimes (3.4 per 1,000). While these categories are the most prevalent, the overall numbers remain low due to the area's small population.

Property-related crime, encompassing burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage and arson, stands at a rate of 11.4 per 1,000 people per year. This includes 9 incidents of 'Other theft', 8 of 'Shoplifting', 8 of 'Criminal damage and arson', and 1 incident each of 'Burglary' and 'Vehicle crime'. For residents and homeowners, understanding these figures means that while overall crime is low, property-related offences still occur. Proactive measures to secure homes and belongings remain advisable, even in an area with a high safety score.

Crime Trends in Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly have experienced an increasing crime trend, with a year-over-year rise of 35.7%. While this percentage change appears substantial, it is crucial to consider the low baseline crime figures characteristic of the islands. Examining the monthly trend data reveals fluctuations throughout the year. The crime rate per 1,000 residents saw lower points in January and May 2025, both at 0.9. Conversely, higher rates were observed in April and July 2025, both reaching 4.2, and peaking in September 2025 at 5.1. This pattern suggests a potential seasonal influence, perhaps linked to visitor numbers.

For residents, an increasing trend, even from a low base, indicates a need for continued awareness. While the Isles of Scilly remain exceptionally safe, understanding these shifts allows for informed decisions regarding personal and property security. Monitoring these trends helps to contextualise the current safety landscape.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When considering the regional context, the Isles of Scilly stand out for their exceptional safety. With an overall crime rate of 32.1 per 1,000 residents and a safety score of 92/100, the islands are significantly safer than many of their mainland counterparts. For instance, areas such as Cornwall, Plymouth, West Devon, South Hams, Torridge, and Teignbridge, while varying in their own statistics, generally exhibit higher crime rates than the Isles of Scilly. This comparison underscores the unique security environment of the islands, which benefits from its isolated geographical position and close-knit community. While crime exists everywhere, the Isles of Scilly offer a distinctly lower risk profile compared to the broader South West region.

Protecting Your Property in Isles of Scilly

Given the property crime rate of 11.4 per 1,000 people in the Isles of Scilly, ensuring the security of your home and possessions is a pragmatic step. While the overall crime figures are low, property-related offences can still occur. Traditional security approaches often focus on recording incidents after they happen, such as CCTV cameras that provide footage of a burglary rather than preventing it. However, if you are seeking a more robust solution, proactive protection is key.

Modern security systems, such as an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS, are designed to prevent crime before it escalates. Rather than simply notifying you after a break-in, these systems detect threats at your property boundary, acting as a significant deterrent. Features like multi-camera intelligence, DVLA vehicle verification, and pattern learning allow the system to differentiate between routine activity and genuine threats, activating lights and speakers to deter intruders. This professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, making burglars more likely to move on within those critical 60 seconds of decision-making, offering a level of prevention that goes beyond reactive recording.