The question of whether crime rates in Hugh Town are generally increasing or decreasing is a pertinent one for residents and those considering a move to the area. The data indicates a concerning trend: crime rates are currently increasing. Specifically, Hugh Town, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA), has a crime rate of 34.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. However, the most recent data reveals a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 23.4% in crime rates.
This means that the number of reported crimes has risen noticeably within the past year. While the absolute number of crimes remains relatively low given the population of 2,271, the upward trend is a factor to consider. It's important to note that a percentage increase can appear substantial even from a low base number.
Despite the rising trend, Hugh Town maintains a commendable safety score of 91 out of 100, which is considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that while crime is increasing, the overall safety perception remains positive. The low crime rate relative to the UK average still contributes to a safer environment compared to many other locations.
Understanding the specific types of crimes contributing to this increase would provide further context, but this information is not available in the provided data. It's advisable to stay informed about local safety initiatives and community policing efforts to better understand and address the factors driving this change. While the data highlights a concerning trend, the overall safety score provides some reassurance, but vigilance and community engagement remain important.