Determining whether domestic abuse is a ‘common’ issue in Westmorland and Furness requires examining available data and understanding the broader context. While specific data on domestic abuse incidents within Westmorland and Furness is not provided, we can analyse the area’s overall crime rate and safety score to gain some insight.
Westmorland and Furness has a crime rate of 71.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, overall, Westmorland and Furness experiences less crime compared to the national average. The area also boasts a safety score of 82 out of 100, again exceeding the UK average of 79. A higher safety score indicates a greater perceived level of safety amongst residents.
However, it is important to acknowledge that domestic abuse is often underreported. Statistics on overall crime rates don't always fully reflect the prevalence of this hidden crime. Domestic abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse, and victims may be hesitant to report it due to fear, shame, or dependence on the abuser. Therefore, while the overall crime rate is lower, this doesn’t negate the fact that domestic abuse likely occurs within Westmorland and Furness, impacting the 230,185 residents.
It's crucial to remember that a lower crime rate does not mean crime is absent, and domestic abuse is a significant issue regardless of the area's overall safety score. If you are concerned about domestic abuse, resources are available. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline can be contacted for confidential advice and support. Reporting any instances of suspected abuse to the police is also vital to ensure the safety of potential victims and hold perpetrators accountable.