Sedlescombe Crime Rate

Sedlescombe is a notably safe urban settlement with a crime rate of 53.0 per 1,000 residents, placing it significantly below the UK national average of 93.1. The area currently holds a safety score of 87/100, which is well above the national benchmark of 78, indicating a high level of security for the local population. Encouragingly, the recent trend direction is positive, with total crime decreasing by 21.7% year-over-year. This downward trajectory suggests that Sedlescombe is becoming even safer for its residents. The following data provides a detailed analysis of crime types, monthly patterns, and local comparisons to help residents and prospective homeowners understand the safety landscape of this Rother settlement.

Crime Breakdown in Sedlescombe

The crime profile of Sedlescombe is primarily defined by violence and sexual offences, which account for 40.0% of all reported incidents. This is followed by anti-social behaviour at 18.5% and other theft at 9.2%. While these figures provide a snapshot of local activity, the overall property crime rate—which includes burglary, vehicle crime, and various forms of theft—stands at 15.5 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average for property-related offences. For homeowners, this suggests a relatively low-risk environment, though the prevalence of theft and vehicle crime indicates that maintaining basic security protocols remains important to deter opportunistic activity. Protecting outbuildings and vehicles is particularly relevant given the rural-urban transition of the settlement.

Crime Trends in Sedlescombe

The long-term outlook for Sedlescombe is very encouraging, with total crime figures showing a significant decrease of 21.7% year-over-year. This reduction indicates that local policing and community safety initiatives are having a tangible impact. A closer look at the monthly trend data from the past year shows a fluctuating but generally low-volume pattern. The safest month was January 2025, with a crime rate of just 0.8 per 1,000 residents. Conversely, the area experienced minor peaks in February, April, June, August, and October, where the rate reached between 5.7 and 6.5 per 1,000. These periodic spikes are common in smaller populations where a single incident can statistically impact the monthly rate. Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend remains firmly downward, providing residents with reassurance that the area's safety profile is strengthening.

How To Keep Safe in Sedlescombe

The highest crime category in Sedlescombe is violence and sexual offences. While the overall numbers are low, personal safety remains a priority. To stay safe, always remain aware of your surroundings when walking alone, particularly in less populated or poorly lit areas of the village. It is advisable to let someone know your expected arrival time when travelling back late at night.

For general community safety, consider joining or starting a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to foster better communication between residents regarding suspicious activity. Given the night-time spike in vehicle crime, ensure all cars are parked in garages or well-lit driveways where possible, and never leave valuables on display. Finally, ensure your home's perimeter is well-maintained; trimmed hedges and functional security lighting can significantly reduce the hiding spots available to opportunistic offenders, enhancing both personal and property safety across the settlement.

Analysis of crime timings in Sedlescombe reveals distinct patterns based on the type of offence. The morning and afternoon periods are heavily dominated by theft-related crimes, which account for 65% and 75% of incidents respectively. This suggests that opportunistic theft is most likely to occur during daylight hours when there is more movement within the village. As evening approaches, the crime profile shifts toward 'other' categories, including public order and anti-social behaviour, which make up 49% of evening reports. The night-time period (12am - 6am) sees a significant peak in vehicle crime, which constitutes 43% of all offences during these hours. This indicates that vehicles parked overnight are at the highest risk, likely due to the cover of darkness and reduced foot traffic.

When examining the local region, Sedlescombe maintains a favourable position compared to its neighbours. Nearby Westfield (Rother) has a higher crime rate of 68.3 per 1,000 people, making Sedlescombe the safer option between the two larger settlements. However, the area is surrounded by several very small hamlets including Cripp's Corner, Telham, and Vinehall Street, all of which recorded a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000. While these zero-crime figures are common in very small populations, they highlight the exceptionally quiet and rural nature of the immediate surroundings. For those seeking a balance between community amenities and a high degree of safety, Sedlescombe represents a secure middle ground within the local authority.

In an area like Sedlescombe, where the property crime rate is 15.5 per 1,000, home security should focus on proactive deterrence. Traditional CCTV systems are often reactive, providing high-definition footage of a crime that has already occurred. For genuine protection, homeowners should consider an AI-powered operating system like scOS. This technology transforms standard cameras into an intelligent network that monitors your property boundaries in real-time. By using pattern learning to recognise residents and deliveries, scOS avoids false alarms while identifying genuine threats instantly. If an intruder is detected, the system can autonomously activate lights and speakers, destroying the element of surprise that burglars rely on. This move from recording to prevention is crucial; most intruders decide whether to target a home within 60 seconds. A visible, proactive system like scOS ensures they move on to an easier target, effectively securing your home against the theft and vehicle crime types seen locally.