The question of whether Haltwhistle is safe to walk around at night requires a careful look at the available data. Haltwhistle, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Northumberland with a population of 3689, has a crime rate of 70.8 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting that, overall, Haltwhistle experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. The area also boasts a general safety score of 84/100, which is higher than the UK average of 79, further reinforcing this perception of relative safety.
However, a significant factor impacting nighttime safety is the ‘Night Safety Score’ of only 10/100. This score provides a stark contrast to the overall safety score and indicates that concerns arise when considering the area’s safety specifically during nighttime hours. While the violent crime rate stands at 26.3 per 1,000, which is lower than the national average, the low night safety score suggests a different experience after dark.
It's important to interpret these scores within context. A low night safety score doesn't necessarily mean that crime is rampant, but it does suggest that individuals may feel less safe or that there are factors contributing to a perception of insecurity. These factors could include a lack of street lighting, fewer people on the streets, or simply a heightened sense of vulnerability during the night. The data does not provide specifics on why the night safety score is so low; it merely reflects the reported perception and potential risk.
Therefore, while Haltwhistle’s general crime rate is comparatively low, caution is recommended when walking around at night. Being mindful of your surroundings, choosing well-lit routes, and avoiding isolated areas are advisable steps to enhance personal safety.