The question of whether Heathfield is safe to walk around at night requires a careful look at the available data. Heathfield (South Cambridgeshire) is a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 1518. While the overall crime rate in Heathfield stands at 36.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, this is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, generally, Heathfield experiences less crime than many other areas in the United Kingdom. The overall safety score for Heathfield is 92 out of 100, which is also above the UK average of 79, further reinforcing a perception of relative safety.
However, a crucial piece of information is the night safety score, which is a considerably lower 17 out of 100. This indicates that residents and visitors may feel less safe walking around Heathfield after dark. The violent crime rate, at 10.5 per 1,000, is also a factor to consider, though still lower than the national average.
It's important to understand that safety scores are derived from reported incidents and perceptions of safety. A lower night safety score doesn't necessarily mean crime is higher at night, but it could reflect concerns among residents or a perceived lack of visibility and security during evening hours. It's also possible that the data reflects a smaller sample size for nighttime incidents, which can skew the score.
Therefore, while the overall crime statistics for Heathfield are reassuring, the night safety score advises a degree of caution. When walking around Heathfield at night, it is advisable to stick to well-lit streets, be aware of your surroundings, and consider travelling with a companion. Reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities is also a proactive step towards maintaining community safety.