Westacott, a Built-Up Area in North Devon with a population of 1545, presents an interesting picture when considering how crime statistics influence residents’ perceptions of safety. The core question is: how do the numbers translate to how people feel?
Westacott’s crime rate currently stands at 29.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate, which sits at 91.6 per 1,000. This disparity alone suggests that residents of Westacott are likely to perceive the area as relatively safe compared to much of the rest of the country. A lower crime rate inherently contributes to a greater feeling of security.
Crucially, Westacott also boasts a safety score of 90 out of 100. The UK average safety score is 79, meaning Westacott performs considerably better. Safety scores are often calculated using a combination of factors including crime statistics, perceptions of safety, and indicators of community resilience. A high safety score reinforces the positive impression generated by the low crime rate.
While statistics provide a valuable baseline, perceptions of safety are complex. They are influenced by factors beyond raw numbers, such as local media coverage, personal experiences, and the overall sense of community. However, the data strongly suggests that the comparatively low crime rate and excellent safety score in Westacott will positively influence residents’ feelings of safety. The combination of a lower crime rate and a higher safety score creates a favourable environment for residents and contributes to a stronger sense of well-being.