South Kesteven Crime Rate

South Kesteven exhibits a crime rate of 69.2 per 1,000 residents between February 2025 and January 2026. This figure is notably lower than the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, placing South Kesteven as a relatively safer area. While violence and sexual offences represent the most reported crime type, the district has experienced a stable trend overall, decreasing by 4.9% year-on-year. This page provides a detailed breakdown of crime statistics, safety scores, and practical advice for residents and those considering moving to the area.

South Kesteven is a predominantly rural local authority district in Lincolnshire, England, characterised by scattered villages and a mix of agricultural land and small market towns. The area's demographic makeup includes a mix of families, retirees, and a small student population centred around Grantham. The presence of agricultural businesses and tourism contributes to local economic activity. The relatively low population density and rural nature of many areas contribute to a sense of community but can also present challenges related to access to services and potential for isolated incidents. Proximity to major transport links, including the A1 and East Coast Main Line, influences commuting patterns and can impact local crime trends.

While South Kesteven generally experiences a lower crime rate than the national average, certain crime types are more prevalent. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest portion of reported crimes, accounting for 3,548 incidents. This represents 24.1 crimes per 1,000 residents, slightly above the UK average of 32.2. Anti-social behaviour follows closely, with 2,499 recorded incidents – 17.0 per 1,000, exceeding the national average of 14.8. Shoplifting accounts for 822 crimes (5.6 per 1,000), falling below the UK average of 7.6. Overall, property crime in South Kesteven stands at 20.5 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average. The specific nature of these crimes, influenced by the area’s rural character and local businesses, warrants ongoing attention and preventative measures.

Crime in South Kesteven has remained relatively stable, decreasing by 4.9% year-on-year. Monthly crime data reveals fluctuations, peaking in August 2025 at 6.4 incidents per 1,000 residents and reaching a low of 4.7 per 1,000 in February 2025. While the overall trend is downward, the slight increase in anti-social behaviour warrants ongoing attention and community engagement. The consistent stability suggests a generally safe environment, but vigilance remains essential.

Compared to neighbouring local authorities, South Kesteven demonstrates a more favourable crime landscape. While Rutland boasts a slightly lower rate of 46.8 per 1,000, areas like Boston (110.9 per 1,000) and Peterborough (126.3 per 1,000) experience significantly higher crime levels. This relative safety contributes to South Kesteven’s appeal for residents and prospective newcomers.

Traditional CCTV systems often record incidents after they occur, providing little preventative value. Consider a more proactive approach to home security. Systems like scOS use AI to detect threats at your property boundary – identifying suspicious vehicles with DVLA verification and alerting you before a break-in can happen. Unlike DIY systems that notify you after the fact, scOS intervenes in real-time, leveraging multi-camera intelligence and autonomous responses like activating lights and speakers to deter potential intruders. Given the 69.2 per 1,000 crime rate in South Kesteven, professional-grade protection offers a significant advantage.

How To Keep Safe in South Kesteven

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's crucial to prioritize personal safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Secure your home with robust locks and consider installing security lighting. When out shopping, be vigilant against pickpockets and keep valuables out of sight. If you live in an area with higher vehicle crime rates like Grantham, park in well-lit areas and consider a car alarm. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the police promptly.