The question of how Witheridge's crime rate compares to other rural villages in Devon is a pertinent one for residents and potential newcomers alike. Our data indicates that Witheridge, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in North Devon with a population of 2,559, exhibits a notably low crime rate. Specifically, the crime rate in Witheridge stands at 44.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the United Kingdom’s national average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000 residents.
To contextualise this further, it’s important to understand that rural areas often benefit from lower crime rates due to factors such as tighter-knit communities, reduced population density, and generally lower levels of deprivation. However, even within the broader context of rural Devon, Witheridge's crime rate appears to be comparatively low. While direct comparisons with other specific rural villages in Devon are not available in this dataset, the significant difference between Witheridge’s rate and the UK average strongly suggests a safer environment than many other locations.
Beyond the raw crime rate, Witheridge also boasts a high safety score of 89 out of 100. This score, which is also above the UK average of 79, reflects a perception of safety and security within the community. A higher safety score often correlates with factors such as lower levels of fear of crime, a greater sense of community cohesion, and effective local policing.
It’s crucial to remember that crime statistics represent reported incidents and do not necessarily capture the full picture of safety. However, the available data paints a reassuring portrait of Witheridge as a relatively safe and secure place to live, particularly when viewed in comparison to the national average and likely the crime rates of other rural villages in Devon. Continued vigilance and community engagement remain key to maintaining this positive trend.