The question of how the crime rate is impacting the quality of life for residents in Hexham, Northumberland, is a valid concern. While Hexham presents a generally positive picture regarding safety, understanding the specific data is crucial. Hexham, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 10,393, currently has a crime rate of 69.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 crimes per 1,000 residents. However, any increase in crime, regardless of whether it's above or below the national average, can affect residents' feelings of safety and overall well-being.
The Safety Score for Hexham is 85 out of 100, which is higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that, overall, residents perceive Hexham as a relatively safe place to live. A higher safety score indicates a greater sense of security and lower levels of fear of crime within the community. It's important to note that a Safety Score is a subjective measure reflecting perceptions, which may or may not perfectly align with the raw crime statistics.
Even with a lower crime rate than the national average, the impact of crime on quality of life is not solely about the number of incidents. Factors such as the type of crime, the perceived risk, and the effectiveness of local law enforcement all play a role. Residents may experience anxiety, reduced social interaction, and a decline in property values if they feel unsafe. While the provided data doesn’t specify the types of crimes occurring in Hexham, any increase in incidents, particularly those involving violence or property damage, can negatively affect residents’ perceptions of safety and their overall quality of life. Community engagement, proactive policing, and reporting suspicious activity remain vital in ensuring the continued safety and well-being of Hexham’s residents.