South Gloucestershire Crime Rate

South Gloucestershire exhibits a crime rate of 74.6 incidents per 1,000 residents over the period from February 2025 to January 2026. This rate is notably lower than the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safer environment compared to the national picture. While overall crime has remained stable, with a slight increase of 3.2% year-on-year, certain crime types have experienced more significant fluctuations. Understanding these trends and the factors influencing crime patterns is crucial for residents and local authorities alike to ensure ongoing safety and security within the community.

South Gloucestershire is a diverse local authority district encompassing a mix of urban and rural areas. The area’s crime statistics are influenced by factors such as population density, the presence of transport links, and the proximity to larger urban centres like Bristol. Concentrations of population, particularly in areas such as Kingswood and Filton, tend to correlate with higher crime rates, reflecting the increased opportunities for crime that come with denser populations. The area’s blend of residential and commercial properties also contributes to the overall crime landscape, with potential for both domestic and business-related incidents. Demographic factors, including age distribution and socioeconomic indicators, play a role in shaping crime patterns, although these are complex and multifaceted.

An analysis of crime data reveals that violence and sexual offences constitute the largest proportion of reported crimes in South Gloucestershire, accounting for 30.1% of all incidents and a rate of 30.1 per 1,000 residents. This figure is slightly below the UK average of 32.2. Anti-social behaviour follows as the second most prevalent crime, with 10.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average of 14.8. Shoplifting is the third most common crime, registering at 6.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, also below the UK average of 7.6. Overall, property crime in South Gloucestershire stands at 23.8 per 1,000 residents. The prevalence of these crimes, and others, shapes the safety landscape for residents and businesses alike.

Crime in South Gloucestershire has remained stable overall, increasing by just 3.2% year-on-year from February 2025 to January 2026. Monthly data reveals fluctuations throughout the year, with November 2025 experiencing the highest crime rate at 7.3 per 1,000 residents, and February 2025 the lowest at 5.1 per 1,000. While the overall trend is stable, it's important to note that some crime categories, such as drug offences, have seen significant increases, requiring targeted intervention and preventative measures.

Comparing South Gloucestershire to neighbouring local authorities reveals varying levels of safety. Bristol, City of, demonstrates a significantly higher crime rate at 142.2 per 1,000 residents, while the Forest of Dean boasts a lower rate of 63.4 per 1,000. Residents should be aware of these differences when considering travel or relocation within the wider region.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a crime has occurred, offering little in the way of prevention. For genuine property protection, consider a proactive system like scOS. scOS uses AI to detect threats at your property boundary, verifying vehicles with DVLA data and recognizing family members to distinguish genuine risks from normal activity. This element of surprise is often enough to deter potential criminals, preventing incidents before they escalate. While DIY systems have their place, professional-grade security like scOS offers a significantly higher level of protection, responding to threats in real-time.

How To Keep Safe in South Gloucestershire

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, residents should prioritize personal safety and home security. Firstly, be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Secondly, ensure your home is well-lit and secure, with robust locks and an alarm system. Thirdly, report any suspicious activity to the police promptly. Finally, consider joining or supporting local neighbourhood watch schemes to foster a sense of community and collective responsibility for safety.