Gomersal and Birkenshaw Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Gomersal and Birkenshaw

Gomersal and Birkenshaw, with a population of 15,986, reports an overall crime rate of 72.5 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is lower than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively lower incidence of crime across the UK. The area achieves an excellent safety score of 83 out of 100, which is above the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent activity, Gomersal and Birkenshaw has experienced a decreasing crime trend, showing a reduction of 12.8% year-over-year. This positive trend suggests a significant improvement in crime levels over the past year, offering a very encouraging picture of safety for residents.

Crime Breakdown in Gomersal and Birkenshaw

An analysis of crime types in Gomersal and Birkenshaw reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 389 incidents, or 24.3 per 1,000 residents, representing 33.6% of all crimes. This is followed by anti-social behaviour with 191 reported crimes (11.9 per 1,000), and public order offences with 98 incidents (6.1 per 1,000). These three categories collectively form a significant portion of the area's criminal activity.

Property-related crime, a key concern for residents and homeowners, combines several categories including burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, other theft, and shoplifting. In Gomersal and Birkenshaw, the property crime rate stands at 24.4 per 1,000 people per year, which is notably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This suggests that residents may face a comparatively lower risk regarding crimes directly impacting their homes and possessions. Specific figures show 92 burglaries (5.8 per 1,000) and 75 vehicle crimes (4.7 per 1,000), highlighting areas where vigilance remains important for local residents, despite the low overall rate.

Crime Trends in Gomersal and Birkenshaw

Gomersal and Birkenshaw has experienced a positive decreasing crime trend over the past year, with a significant reduction of 12.8% year-over-year. This indicates a consistent decline in criminal activity. Examining the monthly trend data provides further insight into these patterns. The crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated throughout the year, starting at 5.1 in October 2024, with a notable peak of 7.7 in June 2025. There was a period of higher crime rates in the spring and summer months, particularly from March to July. However, the overall year-on-year decrease suggests a positive trajectory for crime reduction, making Gomersal and Birkenshaw a safer place to live.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Gomersal and Birkenshaw

Crime patterns in Gomersal and Birkenshaw show distinct variations throughout the day, influenced by the rhythms of community life. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 33% of crimes, alongside burglary at 21% and vehicle crime at 20%, likely coinciding with the start of daily activities. The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees an increase in burglary to 35%, and theft remains high at 34%, reflecting peak daytime activity when properties might be unattended. As evening approaches (6pm - 12am), the crime landscape shifts; other crime types become the most frequent at 40%, while burglary remains significant at 30%. Night-time (12am - 6am) presents a different risk profile, with vehicle crime peaking at 39% and burglary at 32%, indicating that properties are more vulnerable when residents are typically asleep and streets are quieter. These patterns highlight the importance of tailored vigilance depending on the time of day.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When considering Gomersal and Birkenshaw's crime statistics, comparing them to nearby areas provides valuable regional context. Gomersal and Birkenshaw, as an urban settlement within Kirklees, has an overall crime rate of 72.5 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average. Nearby Drighlington, Oakenshaw, Cleckheaton, and Gildersome offer a diverse comparison. These areas are generally similar in size or character, and thus might share some crime dynamics. Cleckheaton, being a larger urban centre, might exhibit higher rates in certain crime categories, while smaller settlements like Drighlington or Oakenshaw could have similar or lower rates. Understanding these local variations helps residents contextualise Gomersal and Birkenshaw's excellent safety score of 83/100 and provides a clearer picture of regional safety.

Protecting Your Property in Gomersal and Birkenshaw

Given Gomersal and Birkenshaw's property crime rate of 24.4 per 1,000 people, which is lower than the UK average, residents benefit from a relatively low risk environment. However, proactive home security remains a wise consideration. Traditional security systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting reactively rather than proactively. If you are seeking real protection, consider systems designed to prevent crime before it happens. AI-powered home security operating systems, such as scOS, offer a different approach by detecting threats at your property boundary, not just at the point of entry.

These advanced systems leverage multi-camera intelligence to monitor all areas simultaneously, identifying potential intruders without human error. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly flag suspicious vehicles with fake plates, while pattern learning distinguishes between family, deliveries, and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. The goal is to deter criminals within their crucial 60-second decision-making window. With autonomous responses like activating lights and engaging speakers, scOS aims to destroy the element of surprise, making burglars move on. Investing in professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, moving beyond simply recording a crime to actively preventing it.