The police response to the perceived rising crime rate in Rural North East Derbyshire is a complex issue. While the area demonstrates a comparatively favourable crime rate of 74.5 incidents per 1,000 residents – lower than the UK average of 91.6 – concerns remain, particularly regarding response times. The population of Rural North East Derbyshire (BUA) is 15,618, indicating that the crime rate is influenced by factors specific to this rural setting.
The key area of concern highlighted by recent data pertains to police response times. In 2024, the median immediate response time for police in Rural North East Derbyshire is 19 minutes. For priority incidents, the median response time is significantly longer, at 51 minutes. This extended response time for priority cases suggests potential challenges in resource allocation and deployment within the rural area. It's important to note that 'priority' incidents are those deemed most urgent and requiring immediate attention.
It’s worth considering the safety score of 82/100 for Rural North East Derbyshire, which is higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that, overall, residents feel relatively safe, despite the concerns about response times. However, the extended priority response time could erode this sense of security, particularly for those experiencing urgent situations.
Police forces typically prioritise incidents based on risk assessment, which considers the potential for harm and the vulnerability of those involved. The longer response times in Rural North East Derbyshire may be attributable to factors such as geographical spread, limited resources, and the challenges of navigating rural terrain. It's likely that the force is actively reviewing these response times and exploring strategies to improve efficiency, potentially through increased patrols, improved communication systems, and collaboration with local communities. Residents are encouraged to report all incidents, regardless of perceived severity, to ensure accurate data collection and inform policing strategies. Further information regarding specific initiatives and local policing plans can be obtained by contacting Derbyshire Constabulary directly or attending local community meetings.