The police response to crime in Witheridge, a built-up area in North Devon with a population of 2559, is a crucial factor in the community's overall safety and well-being. Understanding how the police handle incidents requires looking at both crime statistics and response times.
Crime rates in Witheridge are notably lower than the UK average. The area experiences a crime rate of 44.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the national average sits at 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a generally safer environment compared to many other locations across the United Kingdom. Furthermore, Witheridge boasts a safety score of 89 out of 100, significantly higher than the UK average of 79, indicating a perception of safety among residents.
Regarding police response times, data from 2024 provides insight into how quickly officers are deployed to incidents. The mean immediate response time for Witheridge is 17 minutes. An 'immediate' response typically covers incidents requiring urgent attention, such as those involving potential harm to life or serious injury. For incidents classified as 'priority' – those requiring a prompt but not necessarily immediate response – the mean response time is 39 minutes. These figures represent the average time taken for police to arrive at the scene; individual response times can vary depending on factors such as location, available resources, and the nature of the incident.
It's important to remember that response times are influenced by numerous variables, and these are averages. While Witheridge’s crime rate is relatively low, consistent reporting of suspicious activity and engagement with local police initiatives can contribute to maintaining a safe community. Residents can find further information and reporting channels through the Devon and Cornwall Police website.