How Safe Is Your Area

How Safe Is Your Area? Crime rate statistics throughout the UK Whether you have lived in the same place for a number of years and intend to stay put, or are looking to up sticks to somewhere new it is always a good idea to get informed about the area in question. Making yourself aware of the crime rates could determine future decisions or simply give you a realistic view of certain areas, as the saying 'ignorance is bliss' doesn't always apply. Throughout England and Wales crime rates are decreasing year on year. However, rates are still fairly high with up to 102 crimes per 1,000 of the population being committed in certain regions between 2012 and 2013. Crime Rates In England & Wales 2012-13 Overall crime rates in England & Wales (inc. percentage change). All figures are per 1,000 population 67 60 40 20 13 10 7 4 % change All crime, Violence - with Burglary Offences Criminal Drug against injury, rate against damage offences vehicles rate -8 person, rate A way of tackling levels of crime that has been rolled out since 1998 is the Anti-Social Behaviour Orders, also known as ASBOS. Introduced by former Prime Minister Tony Blair, the order can be given for a number of reasons including drunken or threatening behaviour or vandalism. Over 20,000 have been handed out since the law came into place but depending on the region these figures differ dramatically with 4,658 being handed out in the North West and only 827 in the North East. Anti-Social Behaviour Orders, 1999-2012 Number of Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOOS) issued at courts in each area between April 1st 1999 and December 31st 2012 4,658 4,000 3,000 2,954 2,860 2,000 1,770 1,782 1,649 1,399 1,250 1,096 1,000 827 North East Of Wales East England South West Midlands East Midlands East South West London Yorkshire North And West Humber A main concern when it comes to crime is the risk of being burgled. This can be a terrifying experience and one that can stay with you for a long time after the incident. There are various methods of entry which are used by intruders. Methods of Entry During Burglaries (%) The most common methods of entry into homes used by criminals in England & Wales- expressed as a percentage (%) Forced Door Lock 29 Door Was Not Locked 12 Pushed Past Person Who 11 Opened Door Broke/Cut Panel of Door 10 Forced Window Lock 10 Other Broke/Cut Window Glass Had a Key Window Open False Pretences Other Broke/Smashed Glass of Door Kicked, Smashed or Broke Door By checking and securing these, you could significantly lower the risk of anyone gaining access to your home and help to bring down the overall number of burglaries committed throughout England and Wales even further. Having seen a decrease of around 50% between 2003 and 2013 the rates seem to be slowing down. Therefore the more vigilant you are, the more beneficial it will be for both yourself and whatever area you live in. Domestic Burglary Rates (2003-13) All reported domestic burglaries in England and Wales, from 2003 to 2013. 437.583 300,000 200,000 100,000 2003 '04 *05 *06 *07 *09 '10 '11 '12 2013 80: Source: Office of National Statistics Arson is another crime which is still setting dramatically high numbers throughout both England and Wales. With the North West and South East seeing the highest numbers, there are still major concerns when it comes to this area of crime. Arson Rates 2012/13 (England & Wales) Arson rates by region in England & Wales, for 2012-2013. North West 77,577 South East 77,557 Yorkshire and the Humber 59,371 London 59,100 South West 49,725 West Midlands 49,363 East of England 49,261 East Midlands 43,128 Wales (Total) 31,301 North East 28,540 However, crime prevention efforts by local police forces seem to be reducing rates. Minus a blip in 2005 when the number increased significantly, the overall rates have dramatically dropped by over 50% in the past 10 years. Arson Rates 2003-2013 Number of arson and related criminal damage statistics reported to police in England & Wales 1.200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200.000 2003 *04 *05 '07 *08 *09 '10 '11 '12 2013 90. Source: Office of National Statistics There are a number of other causes of fire which do not relate to arson, from cooking appliances to electrical distribution (ie. wiring, switches, fuse boxes etc.). Although this may not help you decide where to buy your next home, by knowing the common causes you could reduce your risk of injury. Reported Causes Of Fire In Homes (2012) Causes of home fires, represented as a percentage Smokers Materials 2,673 Cooking Appliances 19,612 Other 3.212 3,822 Electrical Appliance 6,073 Electrical Distribution If you are looking to buy a new property in any area of England or Wales, it is always beneficial to do your research first, especially if you are buying to let. Take out landlords insurance with us for great rates and comprehensive cover for when you might need it most. Our range of insurance options means that your policy will be tailored to your individual needs. Therefore, if anything happens whether it is with contents, accidental damage or the building itself then you could be covered. Call us today on 0844 888 0208 to find out what great deals we can offer. TO Cia LET EXPERTS IN LET INSURANCE