Wandsworth is quite a lively residential area which centres around Old York Road. It has cool places to eat and indie boutiques. Some fashion brands have their head offices located here and Southside Wandsworth Shopping Centre is full of the bigger fashion brands. Next to the River Thames, Wandsworth Park is normally busy with dog walkers and families enjoying the space. As a security company near Wandsworth that operates in the area we are going to have a look at the recent crime statistics for Wandsworth and compare them to the London average to determine is Wandsworth safe and how safe is it?
A Snapshot Overview of Crime in Wandsworth
Wandsworth ranks among the top 20 most dangerous boroughs in London, with a crime rate of 110 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023. This is 5% higher than the overall crime rate in London, which sits at 105 crimes per 1,000 people. On a national scale, Wandsworth is the 28th most dangerous city in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, placing it 797th out of all towns, cities, and villages for overall safety.
Is Wandsworth safe for residents and visitors?
while Wandsworth does experience higher crime rates in categories such as vehicle crime and burglary, it remains a relatively safe borough compared to many other parts of London. With a few simple precautions, residents and visitors can enjoy all that Wandsworth has to offer, from its green spaces to its lively neighbourhoods, without significant concern for their safety.
Crime Rates: London and National Comparisons
London Comparison: Wandsworth’s crime rate is 2.4% higher than the London average.
National Comparison: Wandsworth’s crime rate is 26% higher than the average across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
While Wandsworth is not the safest borough in London, its crime rates need further analysis to provide a clear picture of the types of crimes most commonly reported.
Most Common Crimes in Wandsworth: 2023
The most prevalent crime in Wandsworth is violence and sexual offences, with 8,106 reported incidents in 2023. This equates to a crime rate of 33 per 1,000 people, which is a 6% increase from 2022. As with many other urban areas, violent crime and sexual offences remain the most common types of crime.
Vehicle Crime and Burglary: Persistent Issues
Wandsworth has a significant issue with vehicle crime. In May 2023, Wandsworth recorded the worst vehicle crime rate in London, with 386 incidents reported, equating to 1.6 per 1,000 people. Additionally, in November 2023, the borough had the worst burglary rate in London, with 208 burglaries reported, making it a key area of concern for residents.
Year-Over-Year Comparison
Violence and Sexual Offences: Increased by 6% compared to 2022.
Vehicle Crime: Continues to be a major issue, making Wandsworth 5% more dangerous than the London average for vehicle-related crime.
Possession of Weapons: Wandsworth saw a decrease in weapons possession, with 123 offences recorded in 2023, marking an 18% decrease from 2022.
Wandsworth Crime Scorecard: A Detailed Breakdown
Here is a chart, comparing Wandsworth to other London boroughs based on the total number of crimes for the 12 months ending June 2024. This chart highlights how Wandsworth stands relative to the other boroughs listed.
Wandsworth is 5% above the London average for vehicle crime, making it a notable concern in the borough, especially in areas with higher population density. Bicycle theft is even more of an issue, with Wandsworth being 57% above the London average. This reflects the borough's popularity with cyclists but also emphasises the need for improved bike security. On the other hand, when it comes to violence and sexual offences, Wandsworth is 12% safer than the London average, despite this being the most common crime.
Why is Wandsworth’s Crime Rate Higher in Some Areas?
Several factors contribute to higher crime rates in certain parts of Wandsworth:
1. High Population Density and Commuter Traffic
Wandsworth is a highly populated borough with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas. The high density of people, particularly in areas like Clapham Junction and Putney, leads to more opportunities for crimes like vehicle theft, burglary, and public order offences.
2. Expensive Residential Areas
Wandsworth is home to several affluent neighbourhoods, which can make it a target for burglary and vehicle crime. Criminals may view high-value properties and vehicles as lucrative targets, contributing to the borough’s elevated rates for these crimes.
3. Popularity with Cyclists
With many cycling routes and a high number of bicycle commuters, Wandsworth experiences a higher rate of bicycle theft. Cyclists are often targeted in busy areas where securing bikes may be more difficult.
Is Wandsworth Safe for Residents and Visitors?
Despite the relatively high crime rate in some areas, Wandsworth remains a desirable borough to live and visit. By understanding which areas and types of crimes are more common, residents and visitors can take necessary precautions.
For Residents
Wandsworth offers a safe environment for most residents, with the majority of crimes being non-violent, such as theft and vehicle-related offences. By taking standard safety measures—such as locking vehicles, securing bikes, and using home security systems—residents can reduce their risk of becoming victims of crime.
For Visitors
Wandsworth is a popular destination, thanks to its parks, riverside views, and vibrant neighborhoods like Putney and Battersea. Visitors are generally safe, though they should take care to secure valuables, especially bicycles, and be mindful of vehicle crime hotspots. Areas with high foot traffic, such as Clapham Junction, may see occasional theft, so remaining aware of personal belongings is advisable.
FAQs About Safety in Wandsworth
Is Wandsworth one of the most dangerous boroughs in London? Wandsworth is not the most dangerous borough, but it ranks among the top 20 most dangerous boroughs in London, with a crime rate 5% higher than the London average.
What is the most common crime in Wandsworth? The most common crime in Wandsworth is violence and sexual offences, followed by vehicle crime, particularly in areas with high commuter traffic and expensive residential neighbourhoods.
Is Wandsworth safe at night? Most areas in Wandsworth are safe at night, especially in residential neighbourhoods. However, busier areas like Clapham Junction may experience more theft or public disorder incidents, so it’s best to remain cautious in these areas.
How can I stay safe in Wandsworth? To stay safe in Wandsworth, ensure vehicles are locked and secured, use strong locks for bicycles, and take care in busy areas. Installing home security systems can also help reduce the risk of burglary.
Are there any areas in Wandsworth that are safer than others? Yes, quieter residential areas like Southfields, parts of Wandsworth Common, and Roehampton tend to have lower crime rates compared to busier zones like Clapham Junction and Putney.
If you are looking for a security company in Wandsworth to use for your personal or business purposes please do consider Fahrenheit Security for your security guarding requirements.
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