Westmorland and Furness Crime Rate

Westmorland and Furness, a local authority area covering a large portion of Cumbria, maintains a strong safety profile with an overall crime rate of 71.6 per 1,000 people. This figure is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7, contributing to a safety score of 82/100. According to data from December 2024 to November 2025, the crime trend is stable, showing a modest 4.4% decrease year-over-year. This indicates a consistent security environment for the area's 230,185 residents. While the district encompasses varied landscapes from industrial towns to rural villages, the overall statistics suggest that it remains one of the safer regions in the UK, with property crime rates particularly well below the national average.

Westmorland and Furness is a diverse local authority area characterized by a mix of historic market towns, industrial hubs like Barrow-in-Furness, and vast rural landscapes including parts of the Lake District National Park. The area's crime statistics are influenced by several factors, including its status as a major tourism destination, which brings a high transient population during peak seasons. Major employers in the shipbuilding and energy sectors contribute to a stable workforce in urban centres, while the rural areas are more sparsely populated. Transport links like the M6 and key rail routes also influence regional activity. Economic factors vary across the district, with some areas facing industrial transition while others thrive on tourism and agriculture. This blend of urban activity and rural isolation creates a varied safety profile across the local authority.

In Westmorland and Furness, the crime profile is led by violence and sexual offences, which account for 46.2% of all incidents, or 33.1 per 1,000 residents. Criminal damage and arson follow at 9.7%, with public order offences making up 9.5% of the total. These three categories represent the primary focus for local law enforcement and community safety teams.

Property crime in the district is relatively low, with an overall rate of 20.3 per 1,000 people. This combined figure includes burglary (2.2 per 1,000), vehicle crime (1.3 per 1,000), shoplifting (4.4 per 1,000), and other theft (4.4 per 1,000), alongside criminal damage. For residents and homeowners, this property crime rate is notably lower than the UK average of 32.3, suggesting a generally secure environment. However, the prevalence of criminal damage and shoplifting (often referred to as business crime) highlights specific areas of concern. While burglary rates are low compared to national benchmarks, the physical protection of homes remains a priority to maintain these positive statistics and deter opportunistic activity across both urban and rural settings.

Crime trends in Westmorland and Furness have remained stable over the period from December 2024 to November 2025, with a slight 4.4% decrease year-over-year. This stability suggests that local safety initiatives are effectively managing the crime volume. Monthly data shows a consistent crime rate throughout the year, typically staying between 5.4 and 6.9 per 1,000 residents.

The year began with rates around 5.5, with a notable peak occurring in August 2025, when the crime rate reached 6.9 per 1,000. This summer peak is common in areas with high tourism, as increased visitor numbers can lead to a rise in opportunistic offences. Following this peak, the rate stabilized back to 6.0 in the autumn months. For residents, this consistent pattern indicates a predictable safety environment, though the seasonal increase in the summer months suggests that extra vigilance is beneficial during peak holiday periods. Overall, the stable trend reinforces Westmorland and Furness's reputation as a secure place to live and work.

In a regional context, Westmorland and Furness (71.6 per 1,000) is part of a cluster of local authorities with varying safety profiles. When compared to nearby areas such as Cumberland, Lancaster, County Durham, Ribble Valley, Wyre, and Darlington, all of which have reported 0.0 crimes per 1,000 in this specific comparison period, Westmorland and Furness appears to have more active reporting. However, it is important to note that a 0.0 rate often indicates data unavailability for that specific period rather than a total absence of crime. Generally, Westmorland and Furness is considered a very safe regional choice, offering a balanced security environment compared to more urbanized neighbouring districts.

With a property crime rate of 20.3 per 1,000 residents, Westmorland and Furness homeowners live in a relatively low-risk area, but the prevalence of criminal damage and theft suggests that proactive security is a wise investment. Traditional security systems, such as basic CCTV or DIY doorbell cameras, are often reactive. They record footage of a crime as it happens, which might help with an investigation but does little to prevent the initial intrusion.

scOS provides a proactive alternative by using AI to detect threats at your property boundary before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence can identify suspicious patterns and distinguish between regular visitors and potential intruders. For residents in Westmorland and Furness, where properties can range from compact townhouses to isolated rural homes, scOS's autonomous response—such as activating deterrent lights or audio warnings—can effectively stop a burglary before it starts. By prioritizing prevention over recording, scOS ensures that your home is actively defended, providing a level of security that aligns with the needs of a modern household.

How To Keep Safe in Westmorland and Furness

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type across the Westmorland and Furness local authority area. Residents and visitors are advised to maintain personal awareness, especially in the more populated town centres or when out during the evening. Stick to well-lit, busy areas and avoid isolated paths or parks after dark. Carrying a personal safety alarm is a simple precaution that can enhance your personal security.

Given the prevalence of criminal damage and theft, ensuring your property is well-protected is essential. Always lock doors and windows, even when you are at home, and avoid leaving high-value items where they can be seen from the street. For those in more rural parts of the district, securing outbuildings, barns, and garages is particularly important, as these can be targets for opportunistic theft. Participating in local Farm Watch or Neighbourhood Watch schemes can provide valuable information about recent activity in your specific area. Finally, always ensure your vehicle is locked and that no bags, electronics, or tools are left inside, as vehicle crime, while low, is often opportunistic.