Messingham Crime Rate

Messingham’s crime rate of 32.3 per 1,000 residents is 64.5% below the UK average, making it one of the safest areas in North Lincolnshire. The most striking trend is the 41.3% year-on-year drop in overall crime, with possession of weapons falling by a staggering 75%. This sharp decline, coupled with consistently low rates across all crime categories, suggests a combination of effective policing, strong community engagement, and the area’s inherent low-risk profile as a small built-up area.

Messingham is a built-up area in North Lincolnshire, characterized by its small-scale urban fabric and close-knit community. With a population of 4,060, it likely serves as a commuter hub for nearby towns like Scunthorpe. Its low crime rate may reflect strong local policing, lower population density, and limited retail or nightlife activity compared to larger urban centres. The area’s proximity to Scunthorpe, a higher-crime region, may also influence local safety dynamics through economic interdependence.

The most surprising finding is that Messingham’s rate for violence and sexual offences (11.6 per 1,000) is 64% below the UK average, despite being a built-up area. This could be attributed to effective community policing, lower population density, or the absence of high-risk environments like pubs or nightclubs. Other theft (4.9 per 1,000) is 18% below the UK average, likely due to fewer retail outlets or higher levels of community cohesion reducing opportunities for theft. Criminal damage and arson (3.5 per 1,000) is 48% below the UK average, possibly because of fewer vacant properties or stronger local enforcement. Anti-social behaviour is 85% below the UK average, suggesting a strong sense of community and proactive local governance.

Crime in Messingham has decreased by 41.3% year-on-year, with the most dramatic drop in possession of weapons (-75.0%). This sharp decline may reflect increased police presence or community initiatives targeting knife crime. Other notable decreases include burglary (-75.0%), criminal damage and arson (-44.0%), and anti-social behaviour (-40.0%). The overall trend aligns with Messingham’s status as a very safe area, with crime rates consistently below the UK average across all categories. Seasonal patterns also show a peak in May 2025 (4.2 per 1,000) and a trough in January 2026 (1.0 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal activity and policing efforts.

How To Keep Safe in Messingham

While Messingham is exceptionally safe, a few targeted steps can further reduce risk. For vehicle crime (2.5 per 1,000), park in well-lit areas and use steering wheel locks. For burglary (1.5 per 1,000), secure valuables in cabinets and avoid leaving keys in visible places. Theft (4.9 per 1,000) is often opportunistic—store items out of sight when away. Given Messingham’s low crime rate, these measures are proportionate to the area’s already strong safety profile.

Crime in Messingham follows distinct daily patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (59% of afternoon crimes), likely linked to retail activity and people being out during work hours. Vehicle crime surges at night (45% of night-time crimes), possibly due to unattended cars in residential areas. Burglary is most common in the evening (13% of evening crimes), aligning with returning residents and potential opportunistic theft. The sharp drop in crime during Sunday mornings (10-20% lower than weekdays) may reflect reduced commercial activity and fewer people out of their homes.

Compared to nearby areas, Messingham’s crime rate is significantly lower. Scotter, the closest built-up area, has a 30% higher crime rate (42.1 per 1,000), likely due to its larger population and proximity to Scunthorpe. Scunthorpe, a larger town, has a 323% higher crime rate (136.5 per 1,000), which may reflect its industrial character and higher population density. Messingham’s lower rates underscore its status as a very safe, low-risk area.

In a very safe area like Messingham, proactive security measures can enhance existing safety, scOS uses AI to monitor property perimeters and distinguish between regular visitors and potential threats. For instance, vehicle crime—though low at 2.5 per 1,000—is still a concern, and scOS’s DVLA verification could flag suspicious vehicles. Its automated lighting and speaker system could deter opportunistic thieves, aligning with Messingham’s trend of declining burglary (55% below UK average). With a safety score of 92/100, scOS offers proportionate, low-effort protection that complements the area’s already strong crime prevention.