The question of how safe a place is is understandably important, and comparing crime rates can offer some insight. In Farningham, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Sevenoaks, the crime rate stands at 92.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is slightly above the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000 people. While the difference is not substantial, it’s worth considering in context.
It's important to remember that crime rates are just one factor influencing perceptions of safety. Farningham boasts a safety score of 83 out of 100, which is significantly higher than the UK average of 79. This suggests that, despite the slightly elevated crime rate, residents generally perceive the area as safe and secure. Safety scores often take into account factors beyond just reported crime, such as feelings of safety at night and the presence of community support.
Comparing Farningham to its neighbouring areas provides further perspective. Eynsford has a crime rate of 78.0 per 1,000 residents, Horton Kirby reports 85.1 per 1,000, South Darenth and Sutton at Hone registers 58.5 per 1,000, and Swanley Village remarkably has a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000. This demonstrates a considerable variation in crime rates within the immediate vicinity, highlighting that Farningham’s rate sits within a range of experiences.
While the population of Farningham is relatively small at 1463, a small population can also mean that even a few incidents can disproportionately affect the crime rate per 1,000. It's crucial to interpret these statistics alongside other factors and local knowledge. Further investigation into the types of crimes occurring in Farningham might offer a more nuanced understanding. Understanding the nature of the reported crimes can help residents and local authorities address specific concerns and implement targeted preventative measures.