The question of whether Broadoak is safe to walk around at night requires a detailed look at the available data. Broadoak, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Swale with a population of 1542, presents a mixed picture. Overall, Broadoak scores 89/100 on a safety scale, which is significantly higher than the UK average of 79. However, the crucial factor for nighttime safety is the area’s specific ‘Night Safety Score,’ which is a concerning 14/100. This suggests a heightened level of perceived risk after dark.
Let's examine the numbers. Broadoak's overall crime rate stands at 46.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates that, statistically, Broadoak experiences less crime overall compared to the national average. The violent crime rate is 15.6 per 1,000 residents, again, lower than the UK average. However, these figures don't fully paint the picture when considering nighttime safety. The low night safety score implies that residents and visitors may perceive a greater risk of crime during the evening and nighttime hours.
It's important to understand that safety scores are subjective and based on a combination of factors, including reported crime statistics, resident perceptions, and environmental factors like lighting and visibility. While the overall crime rate is relatively low, the night safety score signals that these factors might be contributing to a feeling of insecurity after dark. It's possible that factors not reflected in the overall crime statistics – such as perceived lack of police presence or poor street lighting – are impacting residents' sense of safety.
Therefore, while Broadoak isn't inherently dangerous, exercising caution when walking alone at night is advised. Sticking to well-lit, populated routes is always a sensible precaution. Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas is also important. Consider alternative transportation options if possible, particularly during late hours.