The question of whether Ystalyfera is safe to walk around at night requires careful consideration of available data. While the overall crime rate in Ystalyfera, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Neath Port Talbot with a population of 9058, is lower than the UK average, specific indicators raise concerns about nighttime safety.
The overall crime rate in Ystalyfera stands at 78.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally, Ystalyfera experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. However, it’s crucial to look at the breakdown of crime types. The violent crime rate in Ystalyfera is 40.3 per 1,000 residents. While this doesn't inherently mean violent crime is rampant, it's a factor to consider, especially at night.
The most concerning indicator is the Night Safety Score, which is a low 5/100, significantly below the UK average of 79. This score specifically reflects residents' perceptions of safety after dark and is a critical piece of information when assessing the risk of walking alone. A low score suggests that people in Ystalyfera feel less safe walking around at night. It's important to remember that safety scores are subjective and based on perceived risk, but they represent the experiences of local residents.
It's vital to remember that crime rates and safety scores are statistical averages. Individual experiences can vary considerably. While the overall crime rate is lower than the national average, the low night safety score highlights a specific area of concern. It is advisable to exercise increased vigilance and take precautions when walking around Ystalyfera after dark.