Telford and Wrekin Crime Rate

Telford and Wrekin presents a stable crime profile with an overall crime rate of 94.0 per 1,000 people, which is slightly above the UK average of 91.7. Despite this, the area maintains a respectable safety score of 78/100, suggesting that many offences are concentrated in specific commercial zones rather than being pervasive across all residential neighbourhoods. The recent trend data indicates a stable environment, with a modest 4.2% increase in total crimes over the last year. This suggests that while crime remains a factor for residents to consider, the situation is not escalating significantly. The borough's mix of modern urban centres and quiet rural villages provides a varied safety landscape. The following data provides a detailed look into the specific types of crime and seasonal patterns affecting the local authority.

About Telford and Wrekin

Telford and Wrekin is a dynamic local authority area in Shropshire, centred around the large new town of Telford. The district is a significant industrial and commercial hub for the West Midlands, featuring major manufacturing plants, retail parks, and a thriving town centre. This economic activity, combined with its role as a regional transport crossroads, influences the local crime rate, particularly in terms of shoplifting and vehicle-related offences.

The area is a mix of urban development and rural villages, leading to a diverse demographic profile. Population density is highest in the Telford urban area, where crime rates are naturally elevated compared to the more rural parts of the district. The borough's ongoing growth and development attract a transient workforce and significant footfall to its commercial zones, which can impact anti-social behaviour and public order statistics. Despite these urban challenges, Telford and Wrekin maintains a safety score that is competitive with similar regions, reflecting its status as a well-planned and modern local authority that balances industrial success with residential security.

Crime Breakdown for Telford and Wrekin

In Telford and Wrekin, violence and sexual offences represent the largest portion of reported crime, accounting for 40.6% of all incidents, or 38.2 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common at 16.0%, while shoplifting is the third most frequent at 9.9%. These figures highlight that personal safety and retail-related offences are the primary concerns for the local authority area.

Property crime in Telford and Wrekin—including burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage—occurs at a rate of 27.5 per 1,000 people. This is lower than the UK average of 32.3, suggesting that the region is generally safer for property owners than many other parts of the country. However, shoplifting alone accounts for over 1,800 incidents annually, and criminal damage and arson make up 6.8% of total crime. For residents, this means that while the overall property risk is lower, opportunistic theft and vandalism remain persistent factors. Maintaining visible security measures and participating in community watch programmes are effective ways to further mitigate these risks in a relatively safe district.

Crime Trends in Telford and Wrekin

The crime trend in Telford and Wrekin is currently stable, with a minor year-over-year increase of 4.2%. This suggests that the local authority is successfully maintaining its safety profile despite broader national fluctuations and the area's ongoing growth.

Analysis of the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals a relatively consistent crime rate, generally fluctuating between 7.0 and 9.4 per 1,000 residents. The lowest point of activity was recorded in January and February 2025 (both 7.0), while the middle of the year saw a noticeable uptick, peaking at 9.4 in July. This seasonal pattern, where crime often increases during the summer months, is common in many urban areas. The consistency of these figures throughout the year indicates that there are no sudden surges in criminal activity, allowing residents to plan their security needs with a degree of certainty based on these established monthly patterns.

Telford and Wrekin is situated in a relatively low-crime part of the West Midlands. When compared to similar nearby areas like Shropshire, South Staffordshire, Stafford, and Wolverhampton, it holds a unique position as a major industrial and commercial hub. While some surrounding areas like Newcastle-under-Lyme and Cannock Chase also report lower crime figures in this period, Telford and Wrekin's rate of 94.0 reflects its role as a primary regional centre. This regional context highlights the borough as a secure choice for those looking to live in a modern, growing area, balancing urban amenities with a generally safe and stable environment.

Homeowners in Telford and Wrekin benefit from a property crime rate that is lower than the national average, yet the 27.5 per 1,000 rate still necessitates effective security. Traditional security measures, such as basic alarms or DIY cameras, are often reactive. They notify you after a window has been smashed or a door forced, providing footage of the event but failing to prevent the loss.

For those seeking a higher level of protection, the scOS artificial intelligence system offers a proactive solution. Rather than just recording, scOS uses AI to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. It learns to recognise your family and routines, ensuring that you are only alerted to genuine threats. If an unidentified individual enters your property boundary, the system can autonomously activate deterrents like lighting or speakers. This immediate response often convinces potential burglars to move on before they even attempt a break-in. In a district where criminal damage and shoplifting are factors, scOS provides the professional-grade security needed to maintain peace of mind.

How To Keep Safe in Telford and Wrekin

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in the region, particularly in busier urban areas. To stay safe, it is recommended to stay alert when walking in the evenings, particularly in areas with high nightlife activity. Always use well-lit pedestrian routes and avoid poorly lit parks or alleyways. When using public transport late at night, wait in well-lit areas and try to travel with others if possible.

Anti-social behaviour is also a notable factor, so being mindful of your surroundings in public spaces is advised. If you witness persistent issues, reporting them to the local council or police helps ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed. For your home, simple steps like ensuring all gates are locked and that your property has visible security can deter opportunistic thieves. In rural parts of the authority, joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme can provide extra security through community vigilance. Finally, always keep your personal belongings secure and out of sight when in busy retail parks or the town centre to prevent opportunistic theft.