The risk of violent crime in Handcross, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Mid Sussex, is demonstrably lower than the national average. This is primarily evident when examining the area's crime rate, which stands at 35.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. For context, the UK average crime rate is significantly higher at 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people. This stark difference indicates a considerably reduced likelihood of experiencing violent crime in Handcross.
Several factors likely contribute to this lower risk. Firstly, Handcross has a relatively small population of 2820. Smaller populations often correlate with closer-knit communities and enhanced social cohesion, which can act as a deterrent to criminal activity. While population size isn't a sole determinant, it's a significant consideration.
Furthermore, Handcross boasts a safety score of 91 out of 100, significantly exceeding the UK average of 79. This high safety score suggests residents perceive the area as safe and secure. Such perceptions can influence behaviour and contribute to a lower incidence of crime. It's important to note that safety scores are based on resident perception and reported incidents.
It's also crucial to understand that while Handcross exhibits a low crime rate, this does not guarantee complete immunity from crime. Factors such as socioeconomic conditions, the availability of resources, and the effectiveness of local policing all play a role in crime prevention. Without further data on these specific elements within Handcross, it is difficult to pinpoint precise contributing factors beyond the observable statistics. However, the combination of a small population and a high safety score provides a strong indication of a reduced risk of violent crime compared to the broader UK landscape.