Residents of Barnstaple likely have concerns about the current crime situation, given the available data. The crime rate in Barnstaple (a Built-Up Area or BUA) stands at 127.3 incidents per 1,000 people. This is notably higher than the UK average, which sits at 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people. This means that, proportionally, Barnstaple experiences a higher level of crime compared to the rest of the country.
The safety score further reinforces this perception. Barnstaple's safety score is 71 out of 100, whereas the UK average is 79. A lower safety score generally indicates a perceived lower level of safety amongst residents. While the scoring system’s specific methodology isn't detailed, the difference between Barnstaple's and the UK's scores suggests a reduced feeling of security for those living in the area.
It's important to note that crime rates are complex and can be influenced by various factors, including population density, socio-economic conditions, and police resource allocation. A higher crime rate doesn’t necessarily mean that Barnstaple is inherently more dangerous than other areas; it simply reflects a higher number of reported incidents. The population of Barnstaple’s BUA is 29,465, which could influence the absolute number of crimes reported, regardless of the underlying rate.
Without further context on the types of crimes occurring in Barnstaple (e.g., violent crime vs. property crime), it's difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the level of concern among residents. However, the statistical disparity between Barnstaple’s crime rate and the national average, coupled with a lower safety score, likely contributes to some degree of apprehension within the community. It is reasonable to assume that residents are paying attention to local crime trends and may be seeking reassurance from local authorities and community initiatives.