Blackheath Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Blackheath

Blackheath records a high overall crime rate of 130.7 per 1,000 people per year, significantly above the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 68 out of 100, placing it below the national average safety score of 78. Over the past year, Blackheath's crime trend has remained stable, with a marginal 3.4% year-over-year increase. This indicates a consistent level of safety within the built-up area, providing a foundation for understanding its detailed crime statistics.

Crime Breakdown in Blackheath

In Blackheath, violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes, with 454 incidents representing 51.7 per 1,000 residents and 39.5% of all crimes. Shoplifting is the second highest, with 214 reported cases (24.4 per 1,000), followed by anti-social behaviour at 92 incidents (10.5 per 1,000). These three categories highlight specific challenges within the area.

The overall property crime rate in Blackheath, encompassing burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, is 54.8 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is significantly higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This elevated rate suggests a heightened risk for residents and homeowners, underscoring the importance of robust security measures for properties and vehicles to mitigate potential losses.

Crime Trends in Blackheath

Blackheath has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a minor 3.4% increase year-over-year. This indicates that the overall crime rate has remained relatively consistent. Looking at the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents, there have been fluctuations. For instance, the rate was 10.8 in October 2024, dipped to 8.4 in January 2025, and then saw a peak of 15.7 in June 2025, before settling at 11.6 by September 2025. While there are monthly variations, the overall stability suggests that crime levels have maintained a consistent safety profile for residents.

Time Patterns of Crime in Blackheath

Crime in Blackheath exhibits distinct hourly patterns. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are characterised by significant theft (41%) and vehicle crime (22%), reflecting activity as people commute and businesses open. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft peak at 46% and burglary at 13%, often coinciding with busy retail periods and unoccupied residences. In the evening (6pm-12am), "other" crime types become most prominent at 52%, with theft (17%) and vehicle crime (20%) also significant. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime dominates at 50%, with burglary also a concern at 13%, reflecting opportunities under the cover of darkness. These patterns highlight the varying risks and types of crime at different times, which can inform targeted prevention efforts.

Blackheath in Regional Context: Nearby Areas Comparison

Blackheath, with an overall crime rate of 130.7 per 1,000, can be contextualised by comparing it to its neighbouring urban areas. Nearby Rowley Regis, Cradley Heath, Oldbury (Sandwell), and Halesowen each present their own unique crime profiles. Blackheath's crime rate is higher than Rowley Regis and Cradley Heath, and similar to Oldbury (Sandwell). Comparing it to Halesowen, another urban area, also provides broader regional insight into how Blackheath's crime statistics fit within the wider local landscape. These comparisons help residents understand Blackheath's relative safety and specific challenges.

Protecting Your Property in Blackheath

With a property crime rate of 54.8 per 1,000 in Blackheath, significantly higher than the UK average, residents should prioritise robust home security. Relying solely on traditional CCTV or DIY cameras often means you're merely recording a burglary as it happens, rather than preventing it. True protection comes from proactive measures.

An AI-powered home security operating system such as scOS offers advanced, preventative measures. Unlike reactive systems, scOS is engineered to detect threats at your property boundary, stopping intruders before they gain access. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive coverage, and features like DVLA vehicle verification can identify suspicious vehicles instantly. By learning your family's routines, scOS minimises false alarms, focusing on real threats. The system's autonomous response, including activating lights and engaging speakers upon detection, is designed to destroy the element of surprise for potential burglars, making them move on within the critical 60-second decision window. Investing in such professional-grade, proactive security offers superior peace of mind for Blackheath homeowners.