The question of police presence in Wilton, Wiltshire, is intertwined with understanding the area’s overall safety and the responsiveness of local law enforcement. Wilton, a built-up area (BUA) with a population of 3515, exhibits a crime rate of 70.0 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the United Kingdom’s average crime rate of 91.6 per 1,000. Coupled with a safety score of 82 out of 100 – also exceeding the UK average of 79 – this suggests Wilton is comparatively safer than many other areas within the country.
However, police presence isn't solely about the number of officers; it's about their responsiveness. Data from 2024 reveals the mean police immediate response time in Wilton to be 14 minutes. An 'immediate response' typically indicates situations requiring urgent attention, such as incidents involving potential harm or serious offences. The mean police priority response time, however, is significantly longer at 69 minutes. 'Priority' responses cover a broader range of incidents requiring investigation and action, but not necessarily an immediate physical presence.
It’s important to understand the distinction between these response categories. A 69-minute priority response time doesn't necessarily indicate a lack of police presence, but rather reflects the allocation of resources and the complexity of some investigations. Response times can also be influenced by factors such as the location’s distance from the nearest police station and the volume of calls received. The lower crime rate in Wilton may, in part, be attributed to an effective policing strategy and community engagement, although further analysis would be needed to confirm this. Comparing these figures to national averages provides valuable context, but local experiences can vary. Residents are encouraged to report any concerns or suspicious activity to the police to help maintain the area's safety.