North East Derbyshire Crime Rate

North East Derbyshire recorded a sharp 113.3% year-on-year increase in theft from the person, the most alarming rise in its crime profile. Despite this, the area remains 24.7% below the UK average with a crime rate of 68.6 per 1,000. This unusual contrast between specific crime surges and overall safety highlights the need for targeted vigilance in certain areas.

North East Derbyshire is a diverse region with a mix of rural and urban communities, including commuter towns, historic villages, and newer residential developments. Its relatively low crime rate may be partly explained by the presence of older, tightly knit communities in areas like Wingerworth and Ashover, which often experience lower crime due to strong social cohesion. However, pockets like Grassmoor and Clay Cross show higher crime rates, likely influenced by their proximity to major transport routes and transient populations. The area's economic profile, with a mix of manufacturing and service sectors, may also contribute to variations in crime patterns across sub-regions.

The most striking finding is the 113.3% YoY increase in theft from the person, which remains 82% below the UK average. This surge may be linked to specific hotspots like Grassmoor, where crime rates are 72% higher than the regional average. Meanwhile, shoplifting has risen 100% YoY but still remains 51% below the UK average, possibly due to the area's retail hubs in Dronfield and Chesterfield. Anti-social behaviour has also increased by 7% YoY, tied to seasonal gatherings in urban centres. Property crime, however, remains low, with burglary at 2.4 per 1,000 (26% below UK average), likely supported by strong Neighbourhood Watch engagement in many communities.

Crime in North East Derbyshire has risen by 7.4% year-on-year, with a distinct seasonal pattern. The peak of 7.2 per 1,000 occurred in July 2025, likely driven by increased outdoor activity and longer evenings. The sharp 113.3% rise in theft from the person is particularly concerning, possibly linked to transient populations in areas like Clay Cross. Conversely, vehicle crime has decreased by 16% YoY, potentially due to improved parking security in commuter towns. The trend suggests a need for focused interventions in areas experiencing sharp increases, even while the region as a whole remains safer than the UK average.

Neighbouring areas show stark contrasts: Chesterfield has a 77% higher crime rate than North East Derbyshire, likely due to its larger urban population and higher economic disparity. Conversely, Derbyshire Dales is 21% safer, reflecting its rural character and lower population density. Within North East Derbyshire, Wingerworth is the safest sub-area (35.4 per 1,000), possibly due to its isolated rural setting, while Grassmoor's 72% higher crime rate may stem from its proximity to major roads and transient residents.

In a low-crime area like North East Derbyshire, proportionate security measures can enhance safety without overcomplication. Given the 113.3% YoY rise in theft from the person, consider discreet anti-theft measures for personal items. For vehicle security, the area's 55% lower-than-average vehicle crime rate means standard precautions like alarms and visible locks are usually sufficient. Smart home systems can offer real-time alerts for unusual activity, but over-automation is unnecessary. The region's safety score of 83/100 means residents can maintain vigilance without excessive measures, focusing on securing valuables in high-risk pockets like Grassmoor.

How To Keep Safe in North East Derbyshire

Residents should prioritize vehicle security given the 55% lower-than-average vehicle crime rate but note the 113% YoY rise in theft from the person. Park in well-lit, monitored areas and use visible security measures like alarms. In areas like Grassmoor, where crime is 72% higher than the regional average, consider additional home security. For theft prevention, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and use anti-theft bags. The area's low overall crime rate means standard precautions are usually sufficient, but targeted measures in specific hotspots can enhance safety further.