Scunthorpe Crime Rate

Scunthorpe is the primary urban and industrial centre of North Lincolnshire, with an overall crime rate of 131.9 per 1,000 people. While this figure is higher than the UK average of 91.7, the town's safety score of 68/100 reflects its status as a busy commercial hub. Most importantly, crime in Scunthorpe is on a significant downward trend, with a -12.1% decrease year-over-year. This indicates that the town is becoming safer for its 81,651 residents. The following analysis explores the specific types of crime prevalent in the area, the times they are most likely to occur, and how these figures compare to the surrounding rural villages.

In Scunthorpe, the crime profile is notably led by violence and sexual offences, which account for 40.3% of all reported incidents. This is followed by shoplifting at 10.5% and anti-social behaviour at 9.2%. The high prevalence of shoplifting—recorded at a rate of 13.9 per 1,000 people—reflects Scunthorpe's role as a major commercial hub for North Lincolnshire, where retail areas naturally attract higher volumes of "business crime."

Property-related crime is a significant factor in Scunthorpe, with an overall rate of 45.0 per 1,000 people. This is considerably higher than the UK average of 32.3 and the wider North Lincolnshire average. Within this category, burglary accounts for 4.0% of total crime (5.2 per 1,000), while vehicle crime makes up 3.2%. Other theft and criminal damage also contribute heavily to the property crime total. For residents and homeowners, these statistics indicate a heightened risk of opportunistic theft and property damage. Robust home security and vigilance in commercial areas are essential for mitigating these risks in the urban environment.

The crime trend in Scunthorpe is currently very positive, with a -12.1% reduction in total crimes year-over-year. A detailed look at the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows that crime rates fluctuated between a low of 9.2 in January 2025 and a peak of 12.6 in August 2025.

There was a clear seasonal increase throughout the spring and summer months, with the rate rising from 9.6 in February to its August peak. This is a common pattern in urban areas, often linked to increased footfall and public events during warmer weather. However, the trend declined again in the autumn, falling to 10.7 by November. This overall downward trajectory, despite seasonal peaks, suggests that long-term safety is improving in Scunthorpe, providing a more secure environment for the local community than in previous years.

How To Keep Safe in Scunthorpe

As violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in Scunthorpe, accounting for 40.3% of incidents, personal safety in the town centre and residential areas is paramount. When out, particularly during evening hours, stick to well-lit routes and try to avoid walking alone where possible. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings and keeping your mobile phone out of sight can reduce your risk of being targeted.

Given the high rate of shoplifting and other theft, be extra vigilant with your belongings when in busy shopping areas like the town centre or retail parks. Ensure your bags are zipped and never leave your wallet or phone on a table in a cafe or bar.

To protect your home against the 45.0 per 1,000 property crime rate, ensure all entry points are secured with high-quality locks. Consider installing a smart security system that offers real-time alerts. For vehicle safety, always lock your car and remove all valuables, as even small items can attract opportunistic thieves in urban areas.

Crime in Scunthorpe follows distinct temporal patterns. The afternoon period (12pm to 6pm) is particularly active for theft and shoplifting, as the town's retail centres reach peak capacity. During this time, 42% of crimes are theft-related. As the day transitions into the evening (6pm to 12am), there is a shift towards social-related offences, with "other" crimes (including anti-social behaviour and public order) making up 55% of reports.

The night-time hours (12am to 6am) see the lowest overall volume of crime, but the nature of the offences changes significantly. This period sees a spike in vehicle crime (29%) and burglary (23%), as criminals take advantage of quieter streets and unoccupied business premises. Morning hours (6am to 12pm) are relatively calm, though they still see a high percentage of theft (41%) as businesses open and morning commutes begin. Understanding these patterns allows residents to be more vigilant during high-risk periods.

Scunthorpe's crime rate of 131.9 per 1,000 people is significantly higher than that of its immediate neighbours, which is typical for a regional hub compared to its satellite settlements. Nearby Gunness has a much lower rate of 43.3, while Messingham is even lower at 34.7. The small settlements of Amcotts and Burringham recorded no crimes (0.0) during this period. For those considering the area, Scunthorpe provides the amenities and employment of a large town but with a higher volume of reported incidents. In contrast, the surrounding villages offer a much quieter statistical environment while remaining within easy commuting distance of the town centre.

With a property crime rate of 45.0 per 1,000 people—well above the national average—Scunthorpe residents face a real challenge in securing their homes. Traditional security measures, such as basic cameras or DIY alarms, are often reactive. They notify you after someone has already entered your property or, worse, simply provide footage of the burglary after the fact.

For true prevention in an urban environment like Scunthorpe, proactive AI-powered security is the modern standard. The scOS system uses multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property 24/7, detecting threats at the boundary before a break-in occurs. Its ability to recognise routines and distinguish between a delivery driver and a suspicious loiterer ensures you only receive meaningful alerts. By triggering autonomous responses like activating security lights or speakers, scOS destroys the element of surprise. In high-activity areas, this visible and intelligent deterrence is often enough to make opportunistic criminals move on to a less protected property.