North Somerset Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

North Somerset's overall crime rate of 6.3 per 1,000 residents in January 2026 placed it 7.4% below the UK average of 6.8 per 1,000, a position that reflects both proactive policing and the area's unique socio-economic profile. The most significant contribution to this rate came from violence and sexual offences, which accounted for 48% of all reported crimes, a figure that was 20% higher than the UK average. This elevated level of violent crime may be linked to the area's mix of urban centres, such as the town of Portishead, and rural communities, where social isolation and access to services can sometimes intersect with criminal activity. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour incidents were 25% below the UK average, a trend that could be attributed to targeted community initiatives or the relatively low population density in parts of North Somerset. The seasonal context of January, with its reduced retail footfall and shorter days, appears to have influenced the crime profile, particularly in outdoor spaces where fewer people are present. While property crimes such as burglary and vehicle crime remained below the UK average, the persistent high rate of violent offences highlights the need for continued focus on prevention strategies in high-risk areas. The area's crime profile, therefore, illustrates a combination of local demographics, seasonal factors, and regional policing efforts.

January 2026 saw a 26.7% increase in robbery incidents, rising from 15 to 19 cases. This uptick contrasts with notable declines in theft from the person (-60.0%), bicycle theft (-29.4%), and drug-related crimes (-27.8%). The violence and sexual offences category, at 3.0 per 1,000 residents, stood 20% above the UK average of 2.5 per 1,000, a disparity that may reflect local social dynamics or policing priorities. Conversely, anti-social behaviour remained 25% below the UK average, a consistent trend that could indicate effective community engagement initiatives. The sharp drop in theft from the person, from five to two incidents, may signal improved security measures or reduced opportunities during the post-holiday period. These shifts underscore the importance of real-time crime monitoring for residents, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or nightlife activity.

North Somerset's crime rate in January 2026 fell 8.1% compared to December 2025, declining from 6.8 to 6.3 per 1,000 residents. This monthly shift aligns with seasonal patterns typical of January, a post-holiday period marked by reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours, which may partly explain lower outdoor crime activity. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 45 crimes per day in January, a figure that translates to one reported crime for every 159 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate places North Somerset among the lower end of the UK spectrum for routine crime frequency, though it remains a dynamic area with fluctuating patterns. The population context also reveals that the 224,578 residents of North Somerset experience a crime rate 7.4% below the national average, highlighting the area's relative safety despite the presence of high-profile crime categories such as violence and sexual offences. The combination of demographic factors, including a mix of urban and rural zones, and the seasonal lull in January likely contributes to this downward trend.