The question of whether there has been an increase in criminal damage affecting schools in Pegswood is a valid concern for parents, educators, and the local community. Unfortunately, the provided data doesn't offer a specific breakdown of criminal damage incidents targeting schools within Pegswood. However, we can analyse the broader crime statistics for the area to provide context.
Pegswood, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Northumberland, has a population of 3805. The overall crime rate in Pegswood currently stands at 69.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the United Kingdom average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. While this suggests a generally safer environment compared to the national picture, it doesn't negate the possibility of localised issues or specific incidents affecting schools.
It's important to understand that a lower crime rate doesn’t guarantee complete safety. The safety score for Pegswood is 85 out of 100, which is also above the UK average of 79. This score likely incorporates factors beyond raw crime statistics, such as perceptions of safety and community engagement.
Without data specifically on criminal damage to schools, we can't definitively confirm an increase. However, any incidents of criminal damage, regardless of the target, should be reported to the police promptly. Schools should also have robust security measures in place, including secure perimeter fencing, CCTV surveillance, and alarm systems. Community vigilance and reporting suspicious behaviour are crucial in maintaining safety and deterring crime. Further investigation would require access to more granular data from local police forces, detailing incidents by type and location within Pegswood.