South Tyneside Crime Rate

South Tyneside currently records a crime rate of 121.9 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the UK average of 91.7. The borough maintains a respectable safety score of 72/100, indicating that it is a reasonably secure place for its 151,393 residents. The most encouraging data point is the recent trend direction, which shows a 5.3% decrease in total crime year-over-year. This downward trend suggests a positive shift in the borough's safety landscape. The data, spanning December 2024 to November 2025, indicates that while South Tyneside faces metropolitan challenges, the overall volume of crime is falling, making it an increasingly secure environment for its community in the North East.

About South Tyneside

South Tyneside is a metropolitan borough in North East England, encompassing the towns of South Shields, Jarrow, and Hebburn. The area has a rich industrial heritage, particularly in shipbuilding and coal mining, and is now characterised by its strong community identity and its role as a major coastal and riverside hub. The local economy is diverse, with significant sectors in manufacturing, retail, and tourism, particularly around the beautiful coastline of South Shields.

The borough's crime statistics are influenced by its urban and coastal nature. South Shields, as a major retail and tourism destination, naturally sees higher rates of crime, particularly in categories like shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. The district's urban density and economic profile also contribute to the overall crime volume. However, the borough's active community safety partnerships and respectable safety score indicate a well-managed environment. The combination of strong local identity and effective policing ensures that South Tyneside remains a key part of the Tyne and Wear region, balancing the needs of its 151,393 residents with its status as a busy urban and coastal hub.

Crime in South Tyneside

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crimes in South Tyneside, with 6,509 recorded incidents making up 35.3% of the total. Anti-social behaviour is also significant, accounting for 16.2% of reports, while shoplifting follows at 12.5%. These figures reflect the typical challenges of a metropolitan borough with busy town centres and an active coastal tourism sector.

Property crime in South Tyneside occurs at a rate of 42.8 per 1,000 people. This includes 669 burglaries, 503 vehicle crimes, and 2,300 shoplifting offences. Shoplifting is a notable factor, representing 12.5% of all crime, while burglary accounts for 3.6%. Although the overall crime rate is higher than the UK average, the combined volume of theft and criminal damage (9.7%) remains a priority for residents. Homeowners and car owners are advised to maintain consistent security practices, as property-related offences still make up a substantial portion of local criminal activity. Ensuring that homes and vehicles are properly protected is essential for long-term peace of mind in the borough, particularly in areas with higher footfall.

South Tyneside Crime Trends

The crime trend in South Tyneside is currently decreasing, with a 5.3% drop in total offences recorded over the last year. Monthly data shows some fluctuation, with the crime rate per 1,000 starting at 9.4 in December 2024 and reaching a peak of 11.4 in August 2025. This summer peak is a common pattern as increased outdoor activity and coastal tourism can lead to more reported incidents.

Following the August high, the rate saw a steady decrease, ending at 9.5 in November 2025. Despite these monthly variations, the overall year-over-year decrease indicates that crime levels are being effectively managed. For residents, being aware of these trends can help in taking extra precautions during peak periods, while the borough's overall safety score of 72/100 remains a solid indicator of its long-term stability. Monitoring these trends allows for more effective community safety strategies.

South Tyneside is situated in a busy part of the North East. When compared to the nearby metropolitan areas like Sunderland or Newcastle upon Tyne, South Tyneside's crime rate is often similar or slightly lower. It also shares a similar safety profile with other Tyne and Wear districts like Gateshead and is higher than the very low-crime areas of North Tyneside or County Durham. For those considering the region, South Tyneside offers a good balance of urban and coastal living, especially when compared to the higher-activity areas of the larger nearby cities. Understanding this local context helps residents appreciate the borough's overall standing within the region.

Protecting Your Property in South Tyneside

With a property crime rate of 42.8 per 1,000 people, South Tyneside residents face a higher than average risk of theft and burglary, particularly in the borough's more urbanised areas. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV or standard alarms, are often reactive—they only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. In an area where shoplifting and burglary are persistent issues, proactive protection is essential to prevent incidents before they occur.

scOS offers a significant step forward in home security by using AI to monitor your property's perimeter. Unlike traditional systems, scOS can distinguish between normal activity and a genuine threat at your boundary. If a potential intruder is detected, the system can autonomously respond by activating lights or speakers, often deterring the criminal before they even attempt a break-in. For South Tyneside homeowners, this shift from recording a crime to preventing one is vital. A visible, intelligent security system sends a clear message to opportunistic thieves that your home is a difficult target. In an area where property crime is a factor, the peace of mind provided by proactive, real-time detection is invaluable for protecting your home and family.

How To Keep Safe in South Tyneside

The most common crime in South Tyneside is violence and sexual offences, which accounts for 35.3% of all recorded incidents. While the borough is generally safe, the following tips can help you maintain your personal security:

1. Stay Aware in Town Centres: When visiting South Shields or Jarrow town centre, especially in the evening, stick to well-lit main roads and be mindful of your surroundings.
2. Secure Your Property: With burglary making up nearly 4% of all offences, always ensure your home and outbuildings are well-secured and consider installing motion-activated lighting.
3. Be Vigilant in Crowded Areas: In busy shopping and coastal tourist areas, keep your personal belongings secure to prevent opportunistic theft, which can sometimes escalate.
4. Join Neighbourhood Watch: Engaging with local community safety groups can help you stay informed about specific crime trends in your part of the borough.
5. Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable in a particular location or situation, move to a busier, well-lit area or enter a local business that is open to the public.