Determining the absolute 'safest' neighbourhoods in Kingston upon Thames is challenging without access to hyper-local crime data. However, analysing the overall statistics for the Kingston upon Thames Local Authority District (LAD) provides valuable insights.
Kingston upon Thames, with a population of 172,692, exhibits a crime rate of 87.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly below the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safer environment compared to the national picture. The area also boasts a safety score of 81 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. A higher safety score indicates a perception of greater safety among residents.
It’s important to consider violent crime rates as well. Kingston upon Thames records a violent crime rate of 24.5 per 1,000, which, while not dramatically higher than some areas, is a factor to be aware of. It's crucial to remember that these figures represent the entire LAD, and crime rates can vary considerably within different neighbourhoods.
Without more granular data broken down by smaller geographic areas, it's impossible to definitively name specific neighbourhoods as the 'safest'. However, areas with lower reported incidents, strong community presence, and good street lighting are generally considered safer. Local community groups and neighbourhood watch schemes can also contribute to a sense of security. It is advisable to research specific areas of interest further, consulting local police data (if available) and speaking to residents to gain a more nuanced understanding of safety perceptions.