The question of police presence in Salisbury, Wiltshire, is complex and best understood by examining available data. Salisbury, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 45,797, currently exhibits a crime rate of 102.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the UK national average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests a slightly elevated risk of crime compared to the average across the United Kingdom.
Salisbury's safety score is 77 out of 100, which is also below the UK average of 79. This score, alongside the crime rate, provides a broader picture of perceived safety within the area. It’s important to note that safety scores are often subjective and reflect community perceptions as well as statistical data.
Perhaps most concerning for residents is the police response time data from 2024. The mean immediate response time for police in Salisbury is 14 minutes. This refers to incidents requiring urgent attention. However, the mean priority response time is considerably longer, standing at 69 minutes. 'Priority' incidents are those requiring police attention but not an immediate presence. These longer response times may reflect factors such as resource allocation, geographic challenges, or the volume of calls received.
It’s crucial to understand that these figures represent averages and individual experiences may vary. While the crime rate is higher than the UK average, it doesn't necessarily indicate widespread danger. Reporting crimes, particularly those that might otherwise go unreported, helps police to better allocate resources and understand local trends. Further information about local policing initiatives and crime prevention advice can usually be found on the Wiltshire Police website.