The crime rate in Bidborough, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Tunbridge Wells, is calculated using a standard formula: the total number of reported crimes within the area divided by the population, then multiplied by 1,000. This provides a ‘per 1,000’ figure, allowing for a meaningful comparison between areas of differing population sizes. As of the latest available data, Bidborough has a crime rate of 17.5 per 1,000 residents.
For context, the UK national average crime rate stands at 91.6 per 1,000 people. This demonstrates that Bidborough’s crime rate is significantly lower than the average for the United Kingdom. The population of Bidborough is 1658, further highlighting the relatively small number of reported incidents contributing to this low rate.
It’s important to understand that a lower crime rate doesn’t necessarily mean no crime occurs. It simply indicates a proportionally smaller number of reported incidents relative to the population. The 'Safety Score' assigned to Bidborough is 95/100, which is also considerably higher than the UK average of 79. This score likely incorporates factors beyond just raw crime statistics, such as perceptions of safety, the presence of community support structures, and the effectiveness of local policing initiatives.
While the precise methodology for calculating the Safety Score isn’t detailed in the provided data, the combination of a low crime rate and a high Safety Score paints a picture of Bidborough as a particularly safe and secure place to live. However, it's crucial to remember that crime statistics are based on reported incidents, and underreporting can sometimes skew the apparent picture. Understanding the calculation methods allows for a more informed interpretation of these statistics.