The question of whether Yelverton is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced look at available data. Yelverton, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in West Devon with a population of 1,832, presents a generally positive picture regarding safety, but with a specific caveat concerning nighttime.
Firstly, the overall crime rate in Yelverton is notably low, standing at 23.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000. A safety score of 94/100 further reinforces this perception of safety, again exceeding the UK average of 79. The violent crime rate, at 9.8 per 1,000, is also comparatively low. These figures suggest a relatively safe environment during the daytime.
However, the crucial element regarding nighttime safety is the ‘Night Safety Score’ of just 20/100. This is a considerably lower score than the UK average, indicating a heightened perception of risk after dark. While this score doesn't specify the type of crime contributing to this feeling, it does highlight a discrepancy between the overall safety profile and the experience of walking around at night.
It's important to remember that safety scores are based on a combination of reported crime statistics, perceived safety, and other factors. While the lower crime rate is reassuring, the lower night safety score indicates that residents and visitors may feel less secure when walking around at night. This could be due to factors not fully captured by crime statistics, such as inadequate street lighting, isolated areas, or a general feeling of unease.
Therefore, while Yelverton benefits from a low overall crime rate, exercising caution during nighttime walks is advisable. Being aware of your surroundings, sticking to well-lit and populated routes, and potentially travelling with a companion are sensible precautions.