The question of whether rural farms in Rural New Forest are particularly vulnerable to theft requires a look at the available data. While the area benefits from a relatively strong safety score, the specifics of crime rates provide a more nuanced picture.
Rural New Forest, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 23,047, exhibits a crime rate of 55.5 per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the United Kingdom’s average of 91.6 per 1,000. The area’s safety score stands at 86 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, suggesting a generally safe environment. However, focusing solely on the overall crime rate can be misleading.
Property crime is a specific concern for farms. The property crime rate in Rural New Forest is recorded at 20.6 per 1,000 residents. While this isn't drastically higher than in some other areas, farms are often targets due to the value of machinery, livestock, and other assets. The lower overall crime rate does not negate the risk faced by rural businesses.
It's important to note that the data provided doesn't specify the types of property crime occurring. This could include burglaries, vehicle theft, or theft of agricultural equipment. Understanding the specific types of crimes impacting the area would allow for more targeted preventative measures. The lower overall crime rate in Rural New Forest compared to the UK average is a positive indicator, but vigilance and proactive security measures remain essential for farms operating within this area to mitigate the risk of theft.