Welshpool Crime Rate

Statistics for Crime in Welshpool

Welshpool currently records an overall crime rate of 122.5 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK national average of 93.1. Despite this, the town maintains a safety score of 69/100, reflecting a relatively stable environment compared to many higher-density urban areas, though it remains below the UK benchmark of 78/100. A key point of concern for the community is the recent trend direction; reported crime has increased by 27.4% over the last 12 months. This growth in incident reports suggests that while Welshpool remains a safer-than-average option in some respects, the local security landscape is becoming more active. Residents should consider these figures when evaluating their own security needs and staying informed about local policing.

Breakdown of Crime Types in Welshpool

In Welshpool, violence and sexual offences represent the most significant portion of reported crime, accounting for 47.3% of all incidents. This equates to a rate of 57.9 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour and public order offences are also prominent, making up 11.7% and 10.6% of the total respectively. These three categories together suggest that a large majority of local police activity is focused on interpersonal conflicts and community disturbances.

Property-related crime in Welshpool, which encompasses burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage, occurs at an overall rate of 27.7 per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average of 32.9, which contributes to the town's respectable safety score. Burglary and vehicle crime each account for 2.3% of the total crime. While these figures are relatively low, the impact of property crime remains a concern for local homeowners, particularly as other theft and shoplifting also contribute to the local crime landscape. Ensuring that homes and vehicles are secured remains a practical necessity for residents.

Crime Trends in Welshpool

The crime trend in Welshpool is currently on the rise, with a 27.4% increase in total reported incidents over the last year. Analysis of monthly data shows that the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated but trended upwards throughout 2025. The year began with a rate of 7.7 in November 2024, rising to a peak of 14.2 in July 2025. Although there was a slight decrease in September (7.9), the rate quickly rebounded to 10.5 by October. This pattern suggests a sustained increase in criminal activity rather than a temporary spike. For residents, this trend highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and considering long-term security improvements. The rise in reports may reflect both an increase in actual incidents and improved reporting within the community, but the overall trajectory clearly indicates a more active local crime environment.

How To Keep Safe in Welshpool

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in Welshpool, accounting for nearly half of all local incidents. While these statistics can be concerning, taking practical steps can significantly enhance your personal safety.

When moving around the town, particularly during the evening, stay in well-lit areas and stick to familiar routes. If you are out late, try to travel with friends or ensure someone is aware of your plans. In residential areas, keep your home's exterior well-lit to deter anti-social behaviour, which is the second most common crime type. Always lock your doors and windows, even when you are inside. For those concerned about property safety, consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to stay informed about suspicious activity. Being proactive about your surroundings and maintaining a secure home environment are the most effective ways to mitigate the risks associated with the current crime trends in Welshpool.

Patterns of Crime in Welshpool

Crime in Welshpool exhibits clear time-based trends. During the morning (6am-12pm) and afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft is the dominant concern, accounting for 52% and 55% of reported incidents respectively. This suggests that retail and commercial areas are most vulnerable during standard business hours. As evening approaches (6pm-12am), the nature of crime shifts; 'other' crimes, including anti-social behaviour and public order offences, rise to 54% of the total. This pattern continues into the night (12am-6am), where social disturbances remain high at 43%. Property-specific risks also fluctuate; while burglary is spread throughout the day, vehicle crime peaks significantly during the night, accounting for 24% of reports in those early hours. These figures indicate that while daylight hours are primarily affected by theft, the evening and night present a higher risk for social disorder and vehicle-related offences.

Regional Context and Comparisons

In the regional context of Powys, Welshpool acts as a primary urban centre with a crime rate of 122.5 per 1,000. This is significantly higher than the surrounding smaller settlements. For instance, nearby Guilsfield has a much lower rate of 33.9, and Forden records 32.6. Rural areas such as Gungrog and Berriew reported no crime at all during the same period. These comparisons highlight that criminal activity is more concentrated in Welshpool's commercial and residential centre than in the quieter outlying villages. For those living in or moving to the area, Welshpool offers more amenities but carries a higher statistical risk of crime compared to its more rural neighbours.

Proactive Security in Welshpool

The property crime rate in Welshpool stands at 27.7 per 1,000, which is lower than the UK average. However, with a 27.4% increase in overall crime, homeowners should not become complacent. Traditional security systems, such as basic alarms or standard recording cameras, are often reactive—they only provide evidence after a break-in has occurred. In an environment where crime is on the rise, the objective should be prevention rather than just documentation.

Implementing a proactive security solution like scOS can fundamentally change your home's safety profile. By utilizing AI-powered multi-camera intelligence, scOS identifies potential threats at the property boundary. Instead of simply recording a thief, the system can autonomously respond by activating lights or sirens, removing the element of surprise. This type of active deterrence is particularly effective against opportunistic property crime, ensuring that your home remains a difficult target and discouraging potential intruders before they can cause damage or loss.