The question of whether Swanley is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced look at available data. Swanley, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the Sevenoaks district, has a population of 17,881. Overall, the crime rate in Swanley stands at 89.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is marginally lower than the UK national average of 91.6 per 1,000. A safety score of 80/100 also indicates a relatively safe environment compared to the UK average of 79.
However, a significant factor impacting nighttime safety is the 'Night Safety Score' of just 6/100. This is a concerning indicator and suggests that perceptions of safety significantly decrease after dark. The violent crime rate is 33.3 per 1,000 residents, representing a level of concern that warrants consideration. While this figure doesn't automatically equate to frequent violent incidents, it highlights the potential for risk during nighttime hours.
It's important to understand that these statistics represent aggregate data and don't necessarily reflect the safety of every street or area within Swanley. Certain areas might experience higher crime rates than others. The low night safety score likely reflects a combination of factors, including perceived lack of visibility, reduced police presence, and potentially, an increase in opportunistic crime.
While the overall crime rate isn't dramatically higher than the national average, the poor night safety score underscores the importance of exercising caution. Individuals walking around Swanley at night should prioritise well-lit and populated routes. Being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas, and travelling in groups whenever possible can significantly mitigate potential risks. Always report any suspicious activity to the authorities.