The question of personal safety during the evening is a valid concern for any resident. For those living in Rhondda, a Built-Up Area within Rhondda Cynon Taf, understanding the local safety landscape is key. Rhondda has a population of 22,633 and a crime rate of 54.7 per 1,000 people, which is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, overall, Rhondda experiences less crime than many other areas in the UK. However, the safety score for Rhondda is 86/100, again above the UK average of 79, indicating a generally safer environment.
Despite the positive overall picture, the night safety score of 11/100 is a significant point to consider. This lower score suggests that safety concerns are more pronounced during evening hours. The violent crime rate stands at 25.2 per 1,000, which, while not drastically high, warrants caution.
Given these figures, here are some practical safety tips for Rhondda residents during the evening:
- Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like mobile phones and pay attention to the people around you.
- Stick to Well-Lit Routes: Opt for routes that are well-lit and have pedestrian traffic, especially when walking alone.
- Let Someone Know: Inform a friend or family member of your plans and expected return time.
- Travel in Groups: Where possible, travel with a friend or in a group, particularly during the evening.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uneasy in a situation, remove yourself from it. Your intuition is often a valuable indicator of potential danger.
- Plan Your Journey: Familiarise yourself with the area and plan your route in advance. This can help you avoid unfamiliar or potentially unsafe areas.
- Be Cautious with Strangers: Be wary of approaching strangers and avoid engaging in conversations with individuals you don't know, especially in isolated areas.