The question of whether Highley’s rural location increases its risk of specific types of crime is a valid one. Examining the available data reveals a compelling picture. Highley, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Shropshire with a population of 3743, exhibits a notably lower crime rate of 56.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly below the UK national average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000.
Generally, rural areas tend to experience different crime patterns than urban centres. While urban areas often grapple with higher rates of theft, burglary, and violent crime due to factors like population density and anonymity, rural areas can be more susceptible to crimes like rural theft (targeting agricultural equipment and livestock) and poaching. However, the data for Highley doesn’t explicitly break down crime types.
Despite the potential for rural-specific crimes, Highley's overall safety score is an impressive 85 out of 100, surpassing the UK average of 79. This indicates a high level of perceived safety and a relatively low incidence of reported crime. The lower crime rate suggests that the village benefits from factors associated with rural living, such as a strong sense of community, lower population density, and potentially greater visibility and natural surveillance.
It’s important to remember that a lower crime rate doesn't equate to zero risk. While Highley appears safer than many areas in the UK, residents should still practice common-sense safety measures, such as securing property, being aware of surroundings, and reporting suspicious activity. The data only provides a snapshot; specific crime trends can fluctuate. While the overall picture is positive, ongoing community vigilance is crucial to maintaining Highley's low crime rate and preserving its high safety score.