Sharpness Crime Rate

Sharpness has a crime rate of 64.2 per 1,000 residents, 29.5% below the UK average. However, the area stands out for its burglary rate, which is 104% higher than the national average. This disparity highlights a paradox: while Sharpness is generally safer than most UK areas, its vulnerability to burglary is a pressing local concern that demands targeted solutions.

Sharpness is a small built-up area within Stroud, known for its proximity to the River Severn and its role as a commuter hub for nearby towns. Its compact size and mix of residential and retail spaces likely influence crime patterns. The area's relatively low population density and proximity to rural areas may contribute to lower overall crime rates, though burglary remains an exception due to potential vulnerabilities in property security.

The most surprising finding is Sharpness's burglary rate, which is 104% above the UK average (6.7 vs 3.3 per 1,000). This stark elevation likely stems from the area's mix of older housing stock and transient populations, such as seasonal workers or commuters, which may create opportunities for opportunistic intrusions. Violence and sexual offences, though 18% below the UK average, remain the most common crime type, possibly linked to the area's proximity to transport hubs and social venues. Anti-social behaviour is also lower than the UK average, which may reflect a cohesive community or effective local policing. Vehicle crime, despite a 300% YoY increase, remains 47% below the UK average—likely due to fewer commercial vehicles or effective parking management.

Crime in Sharpness has increased by 18% year-on-year, with burglary surging by 450% and vehicle crime rising by 300%. This dramatic rise in burglary is particularly concerning, as it far outpaces the UK average. The monthly trend shows a sharp peak in June 2025 (12.2 per 1,000/month), likely driven by longer evenings and increased outdoor activity during summer. Conversely, August 2025 saw a significant dip (2.4 per 1,000/month), possibly due to fewer tourists and reduced foot traffic. While most crime types remain below the UK average, the steep increase in burglary suggests a need for immediate, targeted interventions.

How To Keep Safe in Sharpness

Given Sharpness's elevated burglary rate, prioritize securing homes with multi-point locks and motion sensors. Avoid leaving valuables in sight from windows or driveways, especially during night hours when 42% of burglaries occur. Consider using security lighting that activates automatically, as this can deter intruders. For vehicle security, park in well-lit areas and use steering wheel locks, as vehicle crime spikes by 26% overnight. Community vigilance, such as reporting suspicious activity through the 101 number, also helps maintain the area's overall safety profile.

Crime in Sharpness peaks during night hours, with burglary accounting for 42% of incidents between midnight and 6am. This aligns with the area's low population density, which may create opportunities for intruders. Vehicle crime also rises sharply at night, potentially due to unsecured parking in residential zones. Afternoons see a surge in burglary (38%) and theft (37%), linked to increased foot traffic in local shops or businesses. Evening hours feature a mix of burglary (35%) and other crimes (40%), reflecting extended social activity and reduced visibility in certain areas.

Compared to nearby areas, Sharpness's crime rate is 16% higher than Berkeley and 21% higher than Blakeney (Forest of Dean), but 31% lower than Lydney. This variation likely reflects differences in population density, economic activity, and policing strategies across these areas.

For Sharpness residents, burglary remains the most pressing concern, scOS's proactive boundary detection uses AI to identify suspicious activity around homes before intrusions occur. Its autonomous lighting and audio deterrents can disrupt potential burglars within the critical first minute, leveraging context like time of day and known visitors. Cameras operate via ethernet, eliminating Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, and the system's ability to distinguish between threats and regular activity reduces false alarms. In an area where burglary is 104% above the UK average, these features offer a targeted solution to a specific local challenge.