Mid Suffolk Crime Rate

Mid Suffolk Crime Overview

Mid Suffolk is one of the safest local authority districts in the United Kingdom, featuring an exceptionally low overall crime rate of 40.0 per 1,000 people. This is less than half the UK average of 93.1, earning the area an outstanding safety score of 90/100. The district, which is primarily rural and includes towns like Stowmarket and Needham Market, has seen an increasing crime trend with a 7.1% rise over the last year. However, given the very low baseline, the area remains an incredibly secure environment for residents and businesses. The local statistics are primarily driven by violence and criminal damage, with property-related crimes like burglary and vehicle theft being remarkably rare. The following analysis provides a detailed breakdown of these figures to help the community understand their local safety landscape and maintain their high standards of security.

About Gravesham

Gravesham is a local authority district in Kent, situated on the south bank of the River Thames. The area is a mix of urban centres, dominated by the town of Gravesend, and picturesque rural villages like Meopham and Higham. Its history is deeply tied to the river and maritime trade, and today it serves as a key part of the Thames Gateway regeneration area. Its excellent transport links, including high-speed rail to London and proximity to the M25 and A2, make it a popular location for commuters. However, this connectivity also makes the area accessible for transient criminal activity.

The area's crime statistics are influenced by its high population density and its role as a regional hub for shopping and transport. The town centre of Gravesend attracts many visitors, which contributes to higher reports of anti-social behaviour and public order offences. Economically, Gravesham is a diverse district with a mix of industrial heritage and modern development. While it faces some urban challenges, it also benefits from a strong sense of community and a clear commitment to local improvement, as evidenced by the significant downward trend in overall crime rates. The local economy is driven by retail, services, and logistics, all of which benefit from the area's strategic location and improving safety profile.

Crime Breakdown in Mid Suffolk

In Mid Suffolk, violence and sexual offences are the most frequent crime type, making up 45.8% of all reports with 2,033 incidents. Criminal damage and arson is the second most common at 9.2%, followed by anti-social behaviour at 8.1%. For residents and property owners, the overall property crime rate—which includes burglary, vehicle crime, and various forms of theft—is 12.5 per 1,000 people. This is exceptionally low compared to the UK average property crime rate of 32.9. While burglary accounts for 4.5% of total crime (202 incidents), the low overall volume of property-related offences suggests that Mid Suffolk is one of the more secure districts for physical assets. However, the prevalence of criminal damage and other theft (7.8%) indicates that homeowners should still maintain standard security measures. The data shows that while Mid Suffolk is very safe, personal safety and the protection of property from opportunistic damage remain the primary statistical concerns.

Crime Trends in Mid Suffolk

The crime trend in Mid Suffolk is currently increasing, with a 7.1% year-over-year rise in total offences. Analysis of the monthly data reveals that crime rates per 1,000 residents remained very low throughout the year, ranging from 2.7 to 4.1. A peak was observed in July 2025 (4.1), which is a common seasonal pattern where activity increases during the summer months.

The latter part of the year saw some fluctuations, with October 2025 recording a rate of 3.9 per 1,000, up from 3.3 in August. While there has been a slight upward trend, the overall crime rate of 40.0 per 1,000 remains exceptionally low by national standards. For residents, this means that while they should be aware of a slight increase in reported incidents, Mid Suffolk remains one of the safest and most secure local authority districts in the UK.

Regional Safety Context

In the context of Suffolk and East Anglia, Mid Suffolk stands out as a beacon of safety. Its crime rate of 40.0 per 1,000 is higher than the statistical 0.0 reported for neighbouring areas like Ipswich, Babergh, East Suffolk, and West Suffolk in this specific dataset. However, it is important to note that Mid Suffolk is consistently ranked as one of the safest places to live in England. It offers an exceptionally secure, rural environment while maintaining good links to regional centres. For those moving within Suffolk or Norfolk, Mid Suffolk provides a stable and highly secure environment where crime is exceptionally low and safety scores are among the highest in the country.

Proactive Security for Mid Suffolk

Mid Suffolk has an exceptionally low property crime rate of 12.5 per 1,000 people. While the overall risk is low, criminal damage and other theft are the most common property-related issues. For homeowners in Mid Suffolk, the goal is often to maintain the high level of security and peace of mind they already enjoy. Traditional security systems, such as basic CCTV or video doorbells, are reactive; they notify you after an incident has already occurred, which can be particularly unsettling in such a safe area.

scOS offers a proactive security solution that is ideally suited for residents who want the best possible protection. By using advanced AI and multi-camera intelligence, scOS monitors your property's boundaries 24/7. It can distinguish between a local delivery and a potential intruder, and it can even verify vehicles using DVLA data. If a threat is detected, the system can autonomously activate deterrents like high-intensity lights and audio warnings, stopping the crime before it ever begins. For Mid Suffolk homeowners, this proactive approach offers true protection, ensuring that your security system is an active guardian that prevents incidents rather than just a passive recorder of your property. This professional-grade security is the ultimate way to safeguard your home and maintain the exceptional safety standards of the district.

How To Keep Safe in Mid Suffolk

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Mid Suffolk, representing 45.8% of reports. While the area is exceptionally safe, residents can further enhance their security with these practical tips.

1. Rural Awareness: When walking or cycling in more isolated rural areas, especially after dark, stay mindful of your surroundings and let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
2. Secure Your Outbuildings: With criminal damage and other theft being notable factors, ensure that sheds, garages, and barns are secured with high-quality locks. Rural properties can sometimes be targets for opportunistic theft of tools or equipment.
3. Property Marking: Use forensic marking kits for valuable garden machinery and bicycles. This acts as a deterrent and makes it much easier for police to return stolen items if they are recovered.
4. Report Anti-Social Behaviour: ASB is the third most common issue. Reporting incidents to the local council or police helps them identify any emerging patterns in even the quietest villages.
5. Community Connection: Join local Neighbourhood Watch schemes or village email lists. In a low-crime area like Mid Suffolk, a strong community that looks out for one another is the most effective way to maintain safety.