The question of whether Stebbing is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced understanding of available data. Overall, Stebbing, a BUA (Built-Up Area) in Uttlesford with a population of 1735, presents a comparatively safe environment. Its crime rate stands at 37.5 per 1,000 residents, considerably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This places Stebbing in a favourable position when compared to the national picture, with a safety score of 91/100, exceeding the UK average of 79.
However, a crucial element to consider is the village’s Night Safety Score, which is notably low at 16/100. This score specifically assesses perceptions of safety after dark, and a low rating indicates that individuals may feel less secure walking alone at night. While the violent crime rate is 14.4 per 1,000, it’s important to remember that this figure is still within the context of the overall lower crime rate for Stebbing.
It’s vital to interpret these scores with context. The Night Safety Score is often influenced by factors beyond reported crime, such as street lighting, the presence of CCTV, and the general feeling of security amongst residents. A low score doesn't necessarily mean there's a high incidence of crime, but it does suggest potential areas of concern or perception.
Therefore, while Stebbing boasts a low overall crime rate and a high general safety score, caution is advised when walking around at night. Being aware of your surroundings, sticking to well-lit paths, and travelling with a companion are sensible precautions. Further investigation into the reasons behind the low Night Safety Score would be beneficial to fully understand the challenges residents might face after dark.