The question of whether Harwich is a safe place for families requires a close look at available data. Harwich, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Tendring, has a population of 21,037. Examining crime statistics, Harwich’s crime rate stands at 95.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is marginally higher than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000.
While the overall crime rate is a key indicator, it's important to consider violent crime. Harwich's violent crime rate is recorded as 45.3 per 1,000 residents. Again, this is above the UK average, but it doesn't necessarily paint a complete picture of safety. The safety score, a composite metric, provides another perspective. Harwich scores 76/100 on the safety scale, which is slightly below the UK average of 79/100. This suggests that, comparatively, residents might perceive the area as slightly less safe than the national average.
It's crucial to understand that crime rates are averages, and experiences can vary greatly depending on specific neighbourhoods within Harwich. Factors such as local community engagement, police presence, and socioeconomic conditions can significantly impact safety perceptions. The data provided only offers a snapshot of the situation and doesn’t account for unreported crimes or the nature of the crimes themselves. Further research into specific types of crime prevalent in the area, and engagement with local community groups, can provide a more nuanced understanding of safety in Harwich.