Fence Crime Rate

Fence's crime profile is defined by a sharp 100% increase in 'Other crime' year-on-year, a trend that stands out against the area's overall safety. While the local crime rate of 42.1 per 1,000 is 53.7% below the UK average, the sudden surge in unclassified incidents raises questions about underlying factors. Burglary, at 6.3 per 1,000—91% above the UK average—remains the most concerning issue, highlighting the need for targeted security measures.

Fence is a small built-up area within Pendle, characterised by a mix of residential properties and local amenities. Its proximity to rural areas and limited commercial activity may contribute to lower overall crime rates compared to larger towns. However, the presence of a modest population and potential gaps in community surveillance could explain the elevated burglary rate, as unoccupied homes may be more vulnerable to opportunistic theft.

The most striking finding in Fence's crime profile is the burglary rate, which is 91% above the UK average at 6.3 per 1,000. This anomaly may be linked to the area's compact layout, where homes are often clustered closely together, potentially making it easier for intruders to target multiple properties quickly. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences, though rising by 11% YoY, remain significantly below the UK average. This could reflect Fence's low population density and limited nightlife, which reduce opportunities for such crimes. Anti-social behaviour, another top concern, is 36% below the UK average, likely due to the area's tight-knit community and low levels of transient populations. The sharp 100% increase in 'Other crime' remains unexplained by the data but may indicate unreported incidents or shifts in criminal activity patterns.

Fence's overall crime rate has increased by 8.1% year-on-year, driven by a 100% surge in 'Other crime' and a 42.9% rise in burglary. This contrasts with declines in anti-social behaviour (-25%) and vehicle crime (-25%). The monthly trend reveals a sharp peak in January 2026 at 6.3 per 1,000, followed by a steep drop in February. This seasonal fluctuation may be linked to holiday-related activity in January and post-Christmas quietness in February. The sudden increase in 'Other crime' remains unexplained but underscores the need for vigilance against unclassified incidents.

How To Keep Safe in Fence

Residents should prioritise home security against burglary, which is 91% above the UK average. Ensure doors and windows are always locked, even when away from home. Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles overnight, as vehicle crime is most prevalent between midnight and 6am. Consider using motion-activated lighting in gardens to deter intruders during peak burglary hours. For families, securing ground-floor windows with secondary locks can reduce risks. Given the sharp rise in 'Other crime', staying informed about local incidents through official channels may help identify emerging patterns.

Crime in Fence follows distinct patterns tied to daily rhythms. Burglary peaks in the evening (6pm–12am) and night (12am–6am), with 46% of night-time burglaries occurring between midnight and 6am. This aligns with the area's low population density, which may leave homes unoccupied for longer periods. Vehicle crime, meanwhile, spikes at night (22% of incidents between 12am and 6am), potentially linked to poorly lit parking areas. Conversely, theft from individuals occurs most frequently in the afternoon (21% of incidents between 12pm and 6pm), likely tied to local shopping activity. The high proportion of 'Other crime' in the night (29%) suggests unexplained patterns, related to isolated incidents or unaccounted-for factors.

Compared to nearby areas, Fence is significantly safer. Brierfield has a crime rate 138% higher, while Nelson (Pendle) is 191% higher. Barrowford, the safest neighbour, is still 56% above Fence's rate. These differences likely reflect variations in population density, economic activity, and policing resources across Pendle.

In Fence, where burglary is 91% above the UK average, proactive security is essential, scOS employs AI to monitor property boundaries 24/7, distinguishing between routine activity and potential intruders. When a threat is detected, automated lighting and audio deterrents activate instantly, increasing the likelihood of deterring intruders within the critical first minute. This is particularly valuable in Fence, where burglary incidents are concentrated in the evening and night. Cameras operate over a dedicated network, avoiding Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, and the system learns household patterns to reduce false alarms. For Fence residents, this technology directly addresses the area's most pressing crime concern.