Lambeth in South London is a culturally diverse borough, home to areas like the South Bank, Brixton, and Clapham Common. However, questions about safety are important for both residents and visitors. As a security company near Lambeth and operates in the borough we are going to look at the latest crime statistics for the area and assess its safety compared to other boroughs in London providing insights into how the area is evolving.
Is Lambeth a safe area to live and visit?
Lambeth is a busy borough with a lot happening, but it does come with a higher crime rate compared to many other parts of London. While it faces challenges in areas like robbery and violence, it remains a popular place to live and visit, particularly for those drawn to its cultural diversity and social scene. By taking basic safety precautions, both residents and visitors can enjoy what Lambeth has to offer while minimising potential risks.
Snapshot Overview of Crime in Lambeth
Lambeth ranks among the top 10 most dangerous boroughs in London, with a crime rate of 132 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023. This is 26% higher than the overall crime rate in London, which is 105 crimes per 1,000 people. Nationally, Lambeth ranks among the top 20 most dangerous cities, placing it 444th out of all towns, cities, and villages in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Crime Rates: London and National Comparisons
London Comparison: Lambeth’s crime rate is 23% higher than the London average.
National Comparison: Lambeth’s crime rate is 51% higher than the average across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
These figures place Lambeth on the higher end of the crime spectrum, but a closer look at specific crime categories reveals a more nuanced picture.
Most Common Crimes in Lambeth: 2023
The most prevalent crime in Lambeth is violence and sexual offences, with 10,494 reported incidents in 2023, resulting in a crime rate of 38 per 1,000 people. This marks a 5% increase from 2022 when there were 9,981 incidents. While violence and sexual offences are common in many urban areas, Lambeth has seen a steady rise, which aligns with trends across London.
Robbery: A Notable Concern
Lambeth has the worst robbery rate in London. In both January and February 2024, it was the most dangerous borough for robbery:
January 2024: 216 reported robberies (0.79 per 1,000 people).
February 2024: 179 reported robberies (0.65 per 1,000 people).
This consistently high rate makes robbery a particular issue in Lambeth, especially in areas like Brixton and parts of Clapham where foot traffic and nightlife are dense.
Year-Over-Year Comparison
Violence and Sexual Offences: Increased by 5% from 2022.
Robbery: Continues to be a major issue, with 1,751 incidents reported in 2023, making Lambeth 69% more dangerous than the London average for robbery.
Possession of Weapons: Decreased slightly, with 226 offences recorded in 2023, a 3.4% decrease from 2022.
Lambeth Crime Scorecard: A Detailed Breakdown
The bar chart compares the total number of crimes recorded in Lambeth and nine other London boroughs for the 12 months ending in June 2024. Boroughs such as Southwark, Barking and Dagenham, Greenwich, and Westminster are displayed, with each bar representing the number of crimes committed in that borough during the specified period. The horizontal bars allow for an easy comparison between boroughs, with crime totals ranging from around 16,000 to over 78,000.
This chart reveals significant variations in crime rates across different boroughs, with Westminster experiencing the highest number of crimes (78,846) and Barking and Dagenham having the lowest (16,714). Lambeth itself, with 30,299 recorded crimes, falls somewhere in the middle but still ranks among the higher-crime boroughs. The chart shows that some boroughs, like Newham and Southwark, have crime totals comparable to Lambeth, while others like Westminster are much higher, indicating varying levels of safety across London.
Why is Lambeth’s Crime Rate Higher?
Several factors contribute to Lambeth’s elevated crime rate, particularly in specific areas:
1. High Foot Traffic and Nightlife
Lambeth is home to several busy areas, including Brixton, Clapham, and Vauxhall. These neighborhoods are known for their vibrant nightlife, markets, and cultural hubs, which attract large numbers of people. The concentration of visitors and residents increases opportunities for crimes like robbery, theft, and anti-social behavior.
2. Economic Disparities
Like many London boroughs, Lambeth experiences pockets of deprivation, which can contribute to higher rates of certain crimes, particularly violence and property crimes. Some areas in the borough are more economically disadvantaged, leading to higher crime rates in those specific neighborhoods.
3. Urban Density
Lambeth’s dense population, especially in areas like Brixton, increases the likelihood of opportunistic crimes like theft, robbery, and public order offences. The borough’s busy public spaces, including transport hubs and commercial districts, also see higher rates of criminal activity.
Is Lambeth Safe for Residents and Visitors?
Despite its high crime rate, Lambeth remains a popular place to live and visit. The borough has a vibrant community, and many areas are considered safe, particularly during the daytime. However, certain precautions are recommended, especially in areas with higher crime rates.
For Residents
Lambeth’s residential areas vary in safety depending on the neighborhood. Quieter parts of the borough, such as Streatham or parts of Herne Hill, tend to have lower crime rates. However, areas like Brixton, Clapham, and Vauxhall experience more crime due to their bustling nightlife and high foot traffic. Residents should take precautions such as securing valuables, locking bikes, and being cautious when walking alone at night.
For Visitors
Lambeth attracts many visitors thanks to its rich cultural heritage and lively social scene. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings, particularly in busy areas where theft and robbery are more common. Sticking to well-lit areas at night and being aware of personal belongings can help minimize risk.
FAQs About Safety in Lambeth
Is Lambeth one of the most dangerous boroughs in London? Yes, Lambeth ranks among the top 10 most dangerous boroughs in London, with a crime rate 26% higher than the London average.
What is the most common crime in Lambeth? The most common crime in Lambeth is violence and sexual offences, followed closely by robbery, which is a major concern in the borough.
Is Lambeth safe at night? Some areas of Lambeth, such as Brixton and Clapham, experience higher crime rates at night due to their nightlife. It’s advisable to take extra precautions, avoid isolated areas, and stay in well-lit, busy streets if you’re out late.
How can I stay safe in Lambeth? To stay safe in Lambeth, avoid displaying valuables in public, secure your bicycle, be cautious in crowded places, and stick to well-lit areas at night. Lock your vehicle and avoid leaving valuables visible.
Are there any areas in Lambeth that are safer than others? Yes, quieter residential neighbourhoods like Streatham and parts of Herne Hill tend to have lower crime rates compared to busier areas like Brixton and Clapham.
If you are looking for a security company in Lambeth for your personal or business requirements please do feel free to reach out to us as we already have a great presence in the area.
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