The effectiveness of the police presence in addressing crime in Great Somerford, Wiltshire, appears to be contributing to a positive safety profile, although a comprehensive assessment requires consideration of several factors. Data indicates a crime rate of 20.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK national average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. Coupled with this, Great Somerford boasts a safety score of 95 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. These figures suggest a generally safe environment.
However, examining police response times provides a more nuanced picture. Data from 2024 shows a mean immediate response time of 14 minutes. An immediate response typically indicates an emergency situation requiring urgent intervention. The mean priority response time, however, is considerably longer at 69 minutes. A priority response suggests a non-emergency situation requiring police attention, but not immediate action. While the 14-minute immediate response time is positive, the 69-minute priority response time may indicate potential challenges in addressing less urgent matters promptly.
It's important to note that response times can be influenced by numerous factors, including the availability of resources, the geographic distribution of police officers, and the complexity of incidents. The low crime rate itself might contribute to manageable response times, as police resources are less stretched. The high safety score likely reflects a combination of factors, including effective policing, community engagement, and potentially, the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the area.
Ultimately, assessing the effectiveness of the police presence involves more than just response times. Crime prevention initiatives, community policing strategies, and the overall feeling of safety among residents all contribute to the picture. While the statistics paint a reassuring picture for Great Somerford, continued vigilance and collaboration between the police and the community remain essential to maintaining this positive trend.