The question of what contributes to the rate of violence and sexual offences in Horsmonden, a built-up area within Tunbridge Wells, is complex. While the crime rate of 32.6 per 1,000 residents is notably higher than the UK average of 91.6, it's crucial to consider the broader context of the area's characteristics. Horsmonden has a relatively small population of 1747, which means even a small number of incidents can significantly impact the crime rate per capita.
It's important to understand that a high crime rate doesn't necessarily equate to a dangerous environment. Horsmonden actually boasts a safety score of 93/100, significantly above the UK average of 79. This suggests that residents perceive the area as safe, even with a higher reported crime rate. This discrepancy might be due to factors such as increased reporting, a more vigilant community, or the nature of the crimes committed.
Without specific details on the types of violence and sexual offences occurring in Horsmonden, pinpointing definitive contributing factors is difficult. However, potential contributors common to areas with higher crime rates include socioeconomic factors, population density (though Horsmonden is relatively low density), and proximity to larger urban centres which can influence crime patterns. It is also possible that increased reporting and better data collection in the area contribute to the higher reported crime rate.
The comparatively high safety score suggests the community is actively engaged and potentially contributing to the perception of safety. Further investigation into the specific types of crimes recorded would be needed to understand the root causes and implement targeted preventative measures. For example, if domestic violence is a significant factor, targeted support services and awareness campaigns would be beneficial. The police will analyse crime data to identify patterns and allocate resources effectively.