The responsiveness of the local police force to crime in Berkeley (BUA - Berkeley in Stroud) is a key concern for residents. Based on available data from 2024, Berkeley presents a complex picture.
Firstly, it’s important to understand the context of Berkeley’s crime rate. With a population of 2938, the area experiences a crime rate of 56.8 incidents per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment compared to much of the country. The area also boasts a strong safety score of 86 out of 100, further reinforcing this perception of relative safety.
However, the speed of police response is a crucial indicator of how effectively crime is handled. The data reveals that the mean immediate police response time in Berkeley is 15 minutes. This indicates a reasonably prompt response to urgent situations requiring immediate intervention. However, the mean response time for priority incidents is considerably longer, averaging 91 minutes. This extended timeframe for addressing priority calls may be a cause for concern for some residents and warrants further consideration. It's important to note that 'priority' incidents are defined by the police as those requiring a less urgent, but still important, response.
It’s essential to remember that response times are averages and individual experiences may vary. Factors such as the nature of the incident, police resource availability, and geographical location within the area can all influence response times. While the overall crime rate is low and the safety score is high, the longer priority response time highlights an area where improvements could potentially enhance the feeling of safety and security within the Berkeley community. Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the police’s definition of ‘priority’ incidents to better understand the potential wait times for certain types of calls.