The level of police presence in Clavering, a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Uttlesford, is a multifaceted question best answered by examining crime rates, response times, and overall safety indicators. Clavering has a population of 1565 residents and, importantly, a considerably lower crime rate of 34.5 incidents per 1,000 people. This contrasts sharply with the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000, indicating a demonstrably safer environment. The area also scores highly on safety, with a rating of 90 out of 100, significantly exceeding the national average of 79.
When considering police presence, response times are a key metric. Data from 2024 reveals a mean immediate response time of 15 minutes. This refers to situations requiring urgent attention, such as ongoing threats or immediate danger. However, the mean priority response time is considerably longer, standing at 259 minutes. A 'priority' response indicates incidents requiring investigation and action but not immediate physical intervention. This longer timeframe doesn't necessarily reflect a lack of police presence, but rather the allocation of resources to address a range of incidents, many of which may not demand an immediate dispatch.
It’s important to note that response times can be influenced by numerous factors, including the overall demand on police services across the region, the availability of officers, and the complexity of the incident. The lower crime rate in Clavering likely contributes to a more manageable workload for the local police force, but the 259-minute priority response time highlights the need for residents to be aware of how and when to contact authorities. Non-emergency situations should be reported through appropriate channels to avoid overwhelming the immediate response system. Community engagement, such as participation in neighbourhood watch schemes, can also enhance overall safety and provide valuable local intelligence to the police.