Anti-social behaviour, encompassing a wide range of actions from minor disturbances to more serious offences, can undeniably impact the perceived and actual safety of any community. In Capel, a village in Mole Valley with a population of 1625, understanding the relationship between anti-social behaviour and overall safety requires examining the available data.
Capel’s crime rate stands at 47.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, suggesting a relatively lower overall crime burden. However, it’s important to note that this figure encompasses all types of crime, and the impact of anti-social behaviour, which may not always be recorded as a specific crime, can still contribute to a feeling of unsafety and diminished quality of life. While the data does not isolate anti-social behaviour specifically, its presence can erode the sense of security within the community.
A crucial indicator of Capel's safety is its safety score of 89/100, again significantly exceeding the UK average of 79/100. This high score reflects a general perception of safety amongst residents, suggesting that while anti-social behaviour may occur, it is not perceived as overwhelmingly prevalent or threatening. It's likely a combination of factors contributes to this high score, including a close-knit community, active local governance, and effective policing.
It’s also vital to acknowledge that 'anti-social behaviour' is a broad term. It can range from noise disturbances and vandalism to more serious issues like public intoxication and harassment. The cumulative effect of even seemingly minor incidents can create a climate of unease and fear, impacting residents' willingness to engage with their community and potentially leading to more serious issues. While specific data on the prevalence of each type of anti-social behaviour in Capel is not available, the lower overall crime rate and high safety score suggest that the community is generally well-managed, but vigilance remains important. Reporting any instances of anti-social behaviour to the appropriate authorities is crucial for maintaining this positive trend and ensuring a safe environment for all.