The question of what’s driving the high number of violent crime incidents in Rural West Lancashire is a complex one. While the area, defined as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Rural West Lancashire, possesses a safety score of 87 out of 100 – significantly higher than the UK average of 79 – the reported crime rate presents a cause for concern. The crime rate stands at 54.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to a UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This indicates a disproportionately higher level of reported violent crime within this specific rural location.
Several factors can contribute to localised crime rates, and without further qualitative data beyond this quantitative overview, pinpointing the exact drivers remains speculative. The relatively small population of 14,672 within this BUA means that even a small number of incidents can significantly impact the per capita crime rate. It's crucial to remember that a higher crime rate doesn't necessarily equate to a less safe environment overall, as the safety score suggests a generally positive perception of safety.
Possible contributing factors, which are common in rural areas experiencing elevated crime, could include socioeconomic factors, limited access to services, or changes in population demographics. Rural areas can sometimes experience a disproportionate impact from drug-related crime or domestic violence, which are frequently drivers of violent incidents. The higher safety score suggests that residents generally feel safe, which is positive; however, it's essential to understand that this perception may not fully reflect the reported crime statistics. Further investigation, including qualitative data from residents and local authorities, would be necessary to establish a definitive explanation for the observed crime rate.