Royal Wootton Bassett Crime Rate July 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Royal Wootton Bassett’s crime rate in July 2023 stood at 4.7 per 1,000 residents, a figure that is 43.4% below the UK average of 8.3. This stark contrast with national trends underscores the area’s relatively low crime profile, even as specific categories show fluctuations. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 35.9% of all crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (21.9%) and criminal damage and arson (12.5%). These figures align with the area’s character as a small, built-up community within Wiltshire, where seasonal factors—such as the peak of summer tourism and festivals—may influence crime patterns. The rise in shoplifting and criminal damage during July could reflect increased outdoor activity and events, though the overall rate remains significantly lower than in larger urban centres. Anti-social behaviour, while still a concern, saw a 22.2% decrease compared to June, linked to community initiatives or the timing of local events. The area’s low rates for property crimes, such as burglary (0.2 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (0.1 per 1,000), further highlight its distinct profile compared to the UK average. These patterns, while influenced by seasonal rhythms, demonstrate a consistent trend of safety that is likely driven by the town’s compact size, strong community networks, and limited commercial density. As July marks the peak of the summer season, the interplay between local activity and crime rates remains a key area for ongoing observation.

July 2023 saw sharp increases in shoplifting (+150%), criminal damage and arson (+100%), and drug-related crimes (+100%) compared to June. These rises may partly explain the month-on-month 18.4% increase in the overall crime rate, though the area still remains well below the UK average. The decrease in anti-social behaviour (22.2%) and other theft (50%) contrasts with the upward trends, suggesting shifting patterns in local crime dynamics. Shoplifting’s jump from 2 to 5 incidents—despite the area’s low overall rate—could reflect seasonal factors, such as increased foot traffic during summer festivals. Meanwhile, the 70% gap between local and UK averages for other theft highlights a broader trend of lower property crime in Royal Wootton Bassett. For residents, the 43.4% below UK average in violent crime (1.7 per 1,000 vs 2.8 per 1,000) remains a key point of reassurance, even as specific categories show volatility.

Royal Wootton Bassett's crime rate in July 2023 rose 18.4% compared to June, moving from 4.0 to 4.7 per 1,000 residents. While this marks an upward trend, the area remains 43.4% below the UK average of 8.3 per 1,000. Daily crime statistics show roughly 2 crimes reported per day, a figure that, while low, reflects the small population of 13,617. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 213 residents—a monthly exposure rate that underscores the relatively low frequency of crime in this built-up area. This context is critical for residents: even with the month-on-month increase, the likelihood of encountering crime remains significantly lower than national averages, particularly when compared to urban centres where crime rates are consistently higher. The population-scaled perspective further illustrates that, for every 1,000 people in Royal Wootton Bassett, just 4.7 crimes occurred—a figure that, when contrasted with the UK average, highlights the area’s consistent safety record despite the recent upward shift.