The safety score of 94/100 for South Zeal, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in West Devon, reflects a complex picture when considered alongside its crime rate. While a high safety score is generally positive, it’s crucial to understand how it’s calculated and what the underlying crime statistics actually mean.
Firstly, the safety score isn't solely based on crime rates. It incorporates various factors, which are not fully detailed in the provided information, but likely include perceptions of safety, presence of community resources, and other relevant data points. A score of 94/100 is considerably higher than the UK average of 79, suggesting a generally safer environment than many other areas in the country.
However, the crime rate itself provides important context. The data reveals a crime rate of 21.6 incidents per 1,000 residents in South Zeal. This is substantially higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. Further breaking down the data, the violent crime rate stands at 10.8 per 1,000 residents. This figure, while not drastically higher than national trends, warrants attention.
It's important to note that crime rates are often influenced by factors such as population density, socio-economic conditions, and reporting practices. A higher population density can sometimes correlate with higher reported crime rates, although this isn't always the case. The discrepancy between the high safety score and the elevated crime rate highlights that the safety score is a holistic assessment, not just a direct reflection of crime statistics. It likely considers factors that mitigate the impact of the crime rate, such as strong community bonds or effective local policing.
Ultimately, understanding the safety score requires considering both the score itself and the underlying crime data. While South Zeal demonstrates a relatively high safety score, the crime rate figures suggest that vigilance and awareness remain important for residents.