Barton on Sea Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Barton on Sea, within the New Forest, reveal a crime rate of 23.9 per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a generally safer environment. While the safety score stands at a respectable 94 out of 100, reflecting a positive perception of safety, the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, accounting for nearly half of reported crimes, requires attention. Overall, crime rates have remained stable year-on-year, increasing by just 1.7%, suggesting a consistent level of safety within the community. Understanding these trends is crucial for residents and visitors alike.

The most prevalent crimes recorded in Barton on Sea between January 2025 and December 2025 were related to violence and sexual offences, accounting for 40.6% of all reported incidents (71 crimes). Anti-social behaviour followed with 12.0% (21 crimes), and criminal damage and arson represented 10.9% (19 crimes). Public order offences and other theft each accounted for 7.4% (13 crimes apiece). Burglary, while lower in frequency, remains a concern with 9 reported incidents, representing 5.1% of total crimes. Vehicle crime is relatively low at 4.0% (7 crimes). The comparatively low rate of shoplifting (1.7%) and robbery (0.6%) suggests a generally peaceful environment, although the incidence of violence and anti-social behaviour warrants attention. The data indicates that while property crime is present, it is less significant compared to offences involving violence or disruption.

Crime rates in Barton on Sea have demonstrated a stable trend, with a slight increase of 1.7% year-on-year. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 reveals fluctuations, with the highest monthly crime rate recorded in November 2025 (2.9 per 1,000) and the lowest in October 2025 (1.1 per 1,000). While these variations are typical, the overall consistency suggests a stable level of safety within the community. The slight upward trend indicates a need for continued monitoring and preventative measures to maintain this stability.

How To Keep Safe in Barton on Sea

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's crucial to remain vigilant in public spaces. Avoid walking alone at night and be aware of your surroundings. Due to the incidence of anti-social behaviour, report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. Consider joining a local neighbourhood watch scheme to foster community awareness and support. Securing your property is also essential; ensure doors and windows are locked, and consider installing motion-activated lighting. Finally, be mindful of your personal belongings when out and about, particularly in crowded areas.

Crime in Barton on Sea tends to fluctuate throughout the day. Burglary is slightly more common in the night hours (12am - 6am), while theft peaks during the afternoon (12pm - 6pm) coinciding with commercial activity. Vehicle crime also shows a higher incidence overnight (11pm - 6am). Violence and criminal damage have a more even distribution, although the evening hours (6pm - 12am) see a slightly elevated risk. The afternoon period shows a notable increase in theft, suggesting a need for increased vigilance during peak shopping and leisure times.

Compared to neighbouring areas, Barton on Sea presents a stark contrast in crime rates. New Milton, for example, exhibits a considerably higher rate of 94.3 per 1,000 residents, highlighting Barton on Sea’s relative safety. Ashley (New Forest) also has a higher rate at 40.6 per 1,000, while Bashley and Hordle report significantly lower rates of 0.0 per 1,000, suggesting a generally peaceful rural environment. The data underscores Barton on Sea’s position as a safer community compared to several of its immediate neighbours.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. However, the right security system, like scOS, focuses on prevention. scOS uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary – fake delivery drivers, suspicious individuals – and intervenes before a break-in can even begin. The multi-camera intelligence continuously monitors all cameras, unlike systems that miss crucial moments. DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags vehicles with fake plates, a common tactic for burglars. The visible presence of scOS, with its proactive alerts and autonomous response (lights flashing, speakers engaging), creates a powerful deterrent, often causing potential criminals to move on within those critical first 60 seconds. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively protecting your home with a system that prevents crime is another.