Anti-social behaviour, encompassing a range of disruptive and inconsiderate actions, can significantly impact the quality of life for Newington residents. While Newington, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Swale with a population of 4004, generally enjoys a relatively good safety profile, understanding the specific impact of anti-social behaviour is crucial.
The crime rate in Newington stands at 68.2 incidents per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, overall, Newington experiences less crime than many other areas in the country. However, the presence of anti-social behaviour, even within a lower crime rate environment, can still be distressing and unsettling for residents.
Newington’s safety score is 82/100, exceeding the UK average of 79/100. This indicates a perception of safety amongst residents, but doesn’t negate the potential negative impact of anti-social behaviour. Examples of anti-social behaviour can include noise disturbances, vandalism, public intoxication, and loitering, all of which can create a sense of unease and fear within the community. The cumulative effect of even seemingly minor incidents can erode community cohesion and negatively impact residents’ well-being.
It’s important to remember that the data reflects reported incidents. Underreporting of anti-social behaviour is common, meaning the true extent of the problem may be higher than the statistics suggest. Residents experiencing or witnessing anti-social behaviour should report it to the relevant authorities, such as the police or local council, to ensure that appropriate action can be taken. Community engagement, through neighbourhood watch schemes and local forums, is also vital in identifying and addressing the root causes of anti-social behaviour and fostering a stronger sense of community responsibility.