The declining crime trends in Sundridge, located within the Sevenoaks borough, have had a positive impact on residents' feelings of safety. Sundridge, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 1614, currently boasts a crime rate of 58.9 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000.
What’s particularly encouraging is the recent downward trend. Crime rates in Sundridge have decreased by 20.2% year-on-year. This substantial reduction suggests that preventative measures and community efforts are proving effective. This decline directly correlates with residents' perceptions of safety, as evidenced by a safety score of 85 out of 100, well above the UK average of 79. A higher safety score indicates a greater sense of security and well-being amongst the population.
It’s important to contextualise these figures. While the crime rate remains lower than the national average, any decrease in crime is a positive development. The substantial year-on-year decrease indicates a focused effort, whether through increased police presence, community initiatives, or a combination of both, is yielding results. The high safety score further reinforces that residents are noticing and appreciating these improvements.
While the data paints a reassuring picture, maintaining this level of safety requires ongoing vigilance and engagement. Residents should remain aware of their surroundings and continue to report any suspicious activity. Collaboration between residents, local authorities, and the police remains vital to ensuring Sundridge continues to be a safe and welcoming place to live.