Determining the specific factors contributing to the risk of violence and sexual offences in Oswestry requires a nuanced understanding of the available data. While pinpointing precise causes is complex, we can examine the area's statistics and compare them to national averages to gain insights.
Oswestry, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Shropshire, has a population of 17,554. Its crime rate stands at 87.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is marginally lower than the United Kingdom's average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. Furthermore, Oswestry boasts a safety score of 80 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. This suggests, on the surface, that Oswestry is a relatively safe place.
However, it’s important to remember that crime rates are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors. These can include socioeconomic conditions, population density (though Oswestry's is relatively low for a BUA), the age profile of the population, and the presence of vulnerable individuals. The data does not provide insight into these specific factors for Oswestry itself. It’s also crucial to understand that a lower crime rate compared to the national average doesn't equate to a complete absence of risk. Violence and sexual offences, in particular, are serious concerns wherever they occur.
While we cannot determine the causes of crime from the provided data, the fact that the safety score is slightly above average could indicate effective local policing, community engagement, or other preventative measures. Conversely, the crime rate, though lower than average, still represents a tangible level of risk within the population of 17,554. Further investigation into local crime reports and community feedback would be needed to identify specific trends and areas of concern within Oswestry.