Ditchling's crime rate is significantly lower than both the national average and that of several nearby villages within the Lewes district. Based on available data, Ditchling, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 2563, experiences a crime rate of 37.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is a stark contrast to the United Kingdom's average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000.
To provide further context, let's examine the crime rates of surrounding areas. Westmeston and Plumpton, both located within the Lewes district, report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000 residents – an exceptionally low figure. Plumpton Green fares slightly better than Ditchling, with a crime rate of 27.0 per 1,000. However, Hassocks and Hurstpierpoint demonstrate a considerably higher rate of 60.7 per 1,000.
The data also highlights Ditchling’s excellent safety score of 92 out of 100. This is substantially above the UK average safety score of 79, indicating a perception of safety and security amongst residents. The combination of a low crime rate and a high safety score suggests that Ditchling is a relatively safe place to live.
It's important to note that crime rate statistics can be influenced by various factors, including population density, reporting practices, and the types of crimes recorded. While the figures paint a positive picture of Ditchling’s safety, continued vigilance and proactive community engagement remain crucial for maintaining this favourable standing.