North Kesteven Crime Rate

North Kesteven exhibits a lower crime rate than the national average. Over the 12 months to January 2026, the area recorded a crime rate of 50.7 per 1,000 residents, significantly below the UK average of 91.2. While this represents a stable trend with a year-on-year decrease of 3.9%, understanding the specific types of crime prevalent in the area is crucial for assessing overall safety. This report provides a detailed breakdown of crime statistics and offers practical advice for residents and visitors.

North Kesteven is a largely rural local authority district, encompassing a mix of villages, towns, and agricultural land. The area's demographics consist of a diverse population, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. The presence of several smaller towns and villages contributes to a generally lower population density compared to urban areas. Local activities and amenities include farming, tourism, and a range of community events. The relatively low population density, combined with a strong sense of community, may contribute to the area's comparatively lower crime rates, although vigilance remains important.

The most prevalent crimes in North Kesteven are Violence and Sexual Offences, accounting for 19.6 per 1,000 residents (38.6% of all recorded crimes), followed by Anti-social Behaviour (12.3 per 1,000, 24.3%) and Criminal Damage and Arson (3.5 per 1,000, 7.0%). Overall property crime stands at 13.7 per 1,000, encompassing burglaries, vehicle crime, and other forms of theft. Notably, the rate of Violence and Sexual Offences is 39% below the UK average, while Anti-social behaviour is 17% below. Understanding these patterns can help residents and authorities better target preventative measures.

Crime in North Kesteven has remained stable, decreasing by 3.9% year-on-year. Monthly data from February 2025 to January 2026 reveals fluctuations, with the highest monthly rate observed in July 2025 (4.9 per 1,000) and the lowest in February 2025 (3.5 per 1,000). While some crime categories, such as Robbery and Burglary, have seen slight increases in the past year, others, like Violence and Sexual Offences, have decreased marginally. This overall stability suggests a consistent level of risk, although continued monitoring is essential.

Comparing North Kesteven to its neighbouring local authorities, the area demonstrates a significantly lower crime rate. Lincoln, with a rate of 152.7 per 1,000, presents a stark contrast, while South Kesteven boasts a considerably safer environment at 69.2 per 1,000. Boston (110.9 per 1,000) and Newark and Sherwood (84.4 per 1,000) also have higher crime rates than North Kesteven, highlighting the area’s relative safety within the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often simply record incidents after they’ve occurred. Consider a proactive security solution like scOS, which uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary – before a break-in even begins. scOS’s multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification can identify suspicious activity and deter criminals, offering a level of protection beyond standard security measures. The visible presence of professional-grade equipment can be a powerful deterrent, making that crucial 60-second decision for potential burglars to move on.

How To Keep Safe in North Kesteven

Given the prevalence of Violence and Sexual Offences, it’s vital to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and consider travelling with a friend or using well-lit routes. Anti-social behaviour is also a common occurrence, so report any incidents to the authorities. Lock your doors and windows, even when at home, to prevent burglaries, which have a rate of 1.9 per 1,000. Finally, be mindful of your belongings in public places to avoid theft.