The impact of crime on a community’s sense of belonging is a significant concern, and understanding the situation in Farningham, a Built-Up Area within Sevenoaks, requires a careful look at the available data. The question of how crime is affecting the sense of community in Farningham is best addressed by examining the relevant statistics and considering what they might suggest.
Currently, Farningham has a crime rate of 92.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is marginally higher than the UK national average of 91.6 per 1,000. With a population of 1463, even a small difference in crime rate can represent a notable number of incidents within the area. While this figure provides a quantitative measure, it doesn't fully explain the qualitative impact on the community’s feeling of safety and connection.
A crucial element in assessing the overall wellbeing of Farningham is its safety score, which stands at 83 out of 100. This is considerably higher than the UK average of 79. A higher safety score suggests that residents generally perceive their area as safe, despite the slightly elevated crime rate. This could be due to factors such as strong community bonds, effective policing, or a combination of both. It’s important to note that the safety score is a subjective measure based on resident perceptions, and doesn't directly correlate with the raw crime rate figures.
The interplay between these statistics – a slightly above-average crime rate and a relatively high safety score – suggests that while crime is present, it isn't necessarily eroding the community’s sense of belonging to a significant degree. However, any increase in crime can negatively impact this feeling. Continued vigilance and community engagement are essential to maintaining the positive perception reflected in the safety score and fostering a strong sense of community. It's vital to understand that a small increase in crime, even with a high safety score, can still cause concern and anxiety among residents. Further investigation into the types of crimes occurring and the specific areas affected within Farningham would provide a more nuanced understanding of the situation.