The isolation of the Isles of Scilly demonstrably affects crime reporting and overall crime statistics. Situated approximately 28 miles off the Cornish coast, the islands' remote location and small population – currently 2,366 – contribute to a unique crime landscape. The crime rate for the Isles of Scilly is notably low, standing at 33.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000.
This lower crime rate directly correlates with a high safety score of 91 out of 100, substantially above the UK average of 79. While a precise explanation for this disparity is complex and involves a multitude of factors, the geographic isolation is a key element. Reduced opportunities for certain types of crime, such as theft and burglary, are inherent in a sparsely populated and relatively closed community. The strong sense of community and social cohesion, often found in island populations, further contributes to a lower propensity for criminal activity.
It's important to note that the impact of isolation on crime reporting can be multifaceted. While crime rates may be low, the detection and reporting of crimes can sometimes be affected. Limited resources and a smaller police presence, while not necessarily detrimental given the low crime rate, could potentially influence how incidents are investigated and recorded. The small population size means that even a small number of incidents can disproportionately affect the per capita crime rate. Furthermore, the close-knit nature of the community can sometimes present challenges in reporting incidents, though this is speculative and not directly substantiated by the provided data.
However, the data unequivocally demonstrates that the Isles of Scilly is a significantly safer place compared to the national average. The combination of geographic isolation, a small population, and a strong community spirit creates an environment where crime is relatively infrequent.