The question of police presence and effectiveness in Hexham, Northumberland, is a pertinent one for any prospective resident or concerned local. Based on available data, Hexham (a Built-Up Area or BUA with a population of 10,393) exhibits a crime rate of 69.6 per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK national average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safer environment compared to many other areas in the country. Furthermore, Hexham boasts a safety score of 85 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79, reinforcing this perception of safety.
Assessing the effectiveness of the police presence requires examining response times. Data from 2024 indicates a median police immediate response time of 11 minutes. This reflects the time taken to respond to urgent situations requiring immediate intervention. However, the median police priority response time is 34 minutes. This longer timeframe applies to incidents requiring a less urgent but still important police response. While these figures provide a snapshot of operational efficiency, they don't necessarily indicate the overall impact on crime prevention or detection. Factors such as proactive policing strategies, community engagement, and successful investigations also contribute to a feeling of safety and security.
It's important to note that these statistics represent median response times; some calls will be answered more quickly, while others may take longer. The police force's ability to allocate resources effectively, the nature of the incidents reported, and the geographical challenges of the area all influence response times. The lower crime rate, coupled with the above-average safety score, suggests that the existing police presence, alongside other community factors, is contributing to a safer Hexham. However, continuous evaluation and improvement of response times, particularly for priority incidents, remain vital to maintaining this positive trend.