The visibility of the police presence in Welbourn, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within North Kesteven with a population of 1469, is a nuanced question. While the village benefits from a remarkably low crime rate of 39.5 incidents per 1,000 residents – significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 – understanding the specifics of police response is crucial for assessing overall safety.
Welbourn’s safety score stands at a commendable 90 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, suggesting a generally safe environment. However, this doesn't automatically equate to a consistently visible police presence. Data from 2024 indicates that the mean immediate police response time in Welbourn is 32 minutes. A 'priority' response, which addresses less urgent matters, has a considerably longer mean response time of 1204 minutes. It’s important to note that these are averages; actual response times can vary greatly depending on factors such as the nature of the incident, the availability of resources, and the distance to the nearest police station.
This difference in response times between immediate and priority calls highlights a potential challenge. While immediate threats are addressed relatively quickly, less urgent concerns might experience longer waits. The lower crime rate in Welbourn compared to the national average likely contributes to fewer immediate incidents requiring rapid response, but the longer priority response time warrants consideration. It’s crucial to understand what constitutes an 'immediate' versus a 'priority' incident according to local police guidelines.
Residents should be aware of the avenues available for reporting non-emergency concerns to the police and consider participating in community initiatives, such as Neighbourhood Watch, to foster a proactive approach to local safety. Staying informed about local policing updates through the North Kesteven District Council website is also recommended.