The question of whether shoplifting is a significant problem in Church Stretton requires a look at the broader crime statistics for the area. Church Stretton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Shropshire, has a population of 4580. The overall crime rate in Church Stretton stands at 36.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is considerably lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000 people.
While specific data on shoplifting incidents within Church Stretton isn’t provided, the low overall crime rate suggests that shoplifting, like other crimes, is likely less prevalent than in many other parts of the UK. The area also benefits from a high safety score of 91 out of 100, which is significantly above the UK average of 79. This score reflects residents’ perceptions of safety and the general level of security in the area.
It's important to understand that a lower crime rate doesn't mean crime is absent. Even in safe areas like Church Stretton, shoplifting and other petty crimes can occur. The overall crime rate being so much lower than the national average indicates that these incidents are likely infrequent compared to other locations. However, local businesses may still experience occasional theft.
Factors contributing to Church Stretton's relative safety may include its smaller population, strong community spirit, and potentially lower levels of deprivation compared to areas with higher crime rates. It’s also likely that local policing and community initiatives play a role in maintaining the area's safety. While detailed crime breakdowns are unavailable, the overall picture portrays Church Stretton as a relatively safe place with a lower incidence of crime, including shoplifting, when compared to the national average.