Caversham Crime Rate January 2025 | Monthly Statistics

In January 2025, Caversham—a built-up area within Reading—reported 100 crimes across its population of 33,084, translating to a crime rate of 3.0 per 1,000 residents. This figure is 57.7% below the UK average of 7.1 per 1,000, reflecting the area's relatively low crime profile despite its urban density. The most prevalent crimes were violence and sexual offences (33 incidents, 33.0% of total), shoplifting (26, 26.0%), and public order offences (10, 10.0%). These patterns align with Caversham's character as a mixed-use area with a blend of residential, retail, and educational spaces. The surge in shoplifting may be attributed to the post-holiday period, when retail footfall typically declines but stockroom thefts may increase. Public order offences, which rose sharply compared to December, could be linked to shorter daylight hours and colder weather, which may drive more indoor gatherings or alter patterns of public behaviour. Violence and sexual offences, while the largest category, remain significantly below the UK average, consistent with Caversham's proximity to university campuses and its generally stable community environment. The area's low burglary rate (0.1 per 1,000) and near absence of drug-related crimes (1 incident) further illustrate its distinct profile compared to larger urban centres. Seasonal factors, such as reduced outdoor activity in January, may also contribute to the lower overall crime rate, though the 11% month-on-month increase suggests local dynamics are at play.

January 2025 saw dramatic fluctuations in specific crime categories. Public order offences, typically low at 2 incidents in December, rose to 10—a 400% increase. This jump may reflect heightened activity in local public spaces during colder weather or changes in community events. Shoplifting also experienced a sharp rise, doubling from 10 to 26 incidents (+160%), possibly linked to post-holiday retail patterns or increased foot traffic in high-street areas. Conversely, theft from the person dropped by two-thirds (from 3 to 1), suggesting a seasonal dip in opportunistic crimes. Violence and sexual offences remained 60% below the UK average at 1.0 per 1,000, while shoplifting was 29% above the UK rate of 0.6 per 1,000. These divergent trends highlight the combination of local factors, such as the area's mix of residential and commercial zones, which may both drive and suppress certain crime types.

Caversham's crime rate in January 2025 rose by 11.0% compared to December 2024, increasing from 2.7 to 3.0 per 1,000 residents. This monthly aggregate translates to roughly 3 crimes per day in the area—equivalent to one reported crime for every 331 residents over the course of the month. While the population of 33,084 means the absolute number of crimes (100) remains relatively low compared to larger urban centres, the 11% increase suggests a shift in local patterns. The daily crime context reveals a consistent rhythm: 3 incidents per day across a built-up area with mixed residential and commercial zones. This rate is lower than the UK average, but the month-on-month rise may reflect seasonal transitions, such as post-holiday adjustments or changes in local activity levels. The 1-in-331 figure provides a concrete sense of scale for residents, illustrating that while crime is present, it remains infrequent in a community of this size.