Welcome to our exploration of Sunderland crime. Like many urban areas, the city faces its own set of challenges with crime. With a current crime rate of 138 incidents per 1,000 residents, concerns about safety are likely to be at the forefront for many people.
Join us as we examine the data, look at the factors contributing to Sunderland’s crime levels, and explore how these issues are shaping life in this evolving coastal city.
Table of Contents
Is The City Dangerous?
Sunderland ranks as the second most dangerous major town in Tyne & Wear, based on CrimeRate data. This statistic reflects a broader trend in which the city has experienced falling crime rates over the past year. In 2023, the Sunderland crime rate stood at 94.96 incidents per 1,000 residents. However, as of January 2026, this number has decreased to 83.88 crimes per 1,000 people. This rate is above the UK national average of 72 crimes per 1,000 people. This indicates some potential safety challenges for Sunderland.
Is Sunderland Safe?
With the crime rate in Sunderland increasing in the last few years, residents’ perceptions of safety within the town appear to have been impacted. As the Sunderland Echo reported, a survey revealed that only 17% of respondents felt safe in the city center after dark.
An alarming two-thirds also expressed feeling unsafe to some degree. This sentiment has led to growing calls from the community for action to address safety concerns and restore a sense of security in public spaces.
While these statistics and survey results may paint a concerning picture, it’s important to consider the context behind these numbers. Crime rates alone don’t fully capture the complex socio-economic factors influencing Sunderland.
Nor do they reflect the positive steps being taken by the council and local organisations to address these issues. Many areas of Sunderland remain safe, and ongoing community programs and initiatives aim to improve overall security and community cohesion.
What Is The Sunderland Crime Rate?
We’ve used data from Plumplot to put highlight the 5 most common crimes in Sunderland. Violent crime tops the list, making up nearly one-third of reported cases, followed by anti-social behavior and criminal damage. Shoplifting and public order offences, though less frequent, also add to the city’s high crime rate.
This breakdown of Sunderland’s most common crimes provides a clear picture of the safety challenges the city faces. By recognising these crime patterns, both residents and local authorities can take positive steps toward creating a safer community.
| Type Of Crime | Percentage of all crimes ( as of November 2024) |
| Violent crimes | 33.3% |
| Antisocial behaviour | 15.3% |
| Criminal damage/ arson | 9.4% |
| Shoplifting | 11.8% |
| Public order crime | 7.5% |
Where Is Sunderland Crime Highest?
Crime in Sunderland’s wards varies significantly. Using data from CrimeRate, we’ve highlighted the local areas with the highest and lowest levels of crime as of September 2024:
Areas With the Most Crime
Hendon
- Crime rate: 227.3 per 1,000 residents
- Common crimes: Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and arson
Millfield
- Crime rate: 191.5 per 1,000 residents
- Common crimes: Violent crimes, shoplifting, anti-social behaviour
Southwick
Common crimes: Violence and sexual offences, shoplifting, anti-social behaviour
Crime rate: 141.5 per 1,000 residents
Areas With The Least Crime
Washington East
- Crime rate: 52.3 per 1,000 residents
- Common crimes: Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and arson
Washington West
- Crime rate: 56.0 per 1,000 residents
- Common crimes: Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and arson
St Chad’s
- Crime rate: 56.0 per 1,000 residents
- Common crimes: Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and arson
What Factors Are Contributing To Crime Levels?
The Sunderland crime rate has been continuously rising. This, combined with the reported lack of residents feeling safe at night, is beginning to urge members of the Sunderland City Council to raise concerns. The safety survey results were labelled as ‘appalling’ and ‘totally damning.’
One theory is that the general lack of support and funding for Northumbria Police has helped feed the rising crime rates. As the force addresses in their Police & Crime plan for 2022-2025, they’ve lost £148 million from their budget since 2010 alongside 1,100 police officers.
Others believe the cause of the Sunderland crime catastrophe is related to peer pressure, poverty, and an increased availability of guns, knives, alcohol, and illegal substances. It is also estimated that 35.4% of adolescents in Sunderland were living below the poverty line in 2021/22. Additionally, substance misuse is often linked with violent crimes, muggings, and robberies, which are three of Sunderland’s biggest criminal dilemmas.
What Has The News Reported Regarding Sunderland Crime?
Recent news reports from the Sunderland Echo highlight various crime-related incidents that have raised concerns among residents.
The first half of 2026 has already seen numerous other serious cases, including a 13-year sentence for a woman who blinded her former friend with a corrosive substance and a 27-year sentence for a man convicted of attempted murder. More recent cases have included a delivery driver left with life-changing injuries, prolific shoplifting sprees, and a 7.5-year sentence for a rapist.
What Is The Latest Northumbria Police News?
SAIL Initiative
The Sunderland Altogether Improving Lives (SAIL) initiative has made significant strides in enhancing safety in the city centre. Alongside other partners of the project, Northumbria Police have worked to tackle petty crime and disorder as well as improving the overall condition of city centre.
The program saw positive results in its first year including a 50% reduction in vehicle crime, a 62% fall in burglary and rowdy/ inconsiderate behaviour decreasing by 82%. This collaboration between Northumbria Police and local partners reflects a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Violence Reduction Unit
The force’s Violence Reduction Unit have recently published where their work will be focused as we approach the end of 2024. One of their key priorities is combatting the potential challenges that the darker nights can bring. This stems from concerns that areas such as as late-night events can lead to higher levels of violence.
To address these issues, a collaborative effort involving the Violence Reduction Unit, Community Safety Partnerships, Northumbria Police, and youth organisations is underway. Preventative measures such as additional patrols and taxi marshals are being rolled out throughout the city to reassure the public when it comes to Sunderland crime.
So, What Can We Learn About The Sunderland Crime Rate?
In summary, Northumbria Police are making strides towards reducing crime in Sunderland through various initiatives. The force are doing this by collaborating with local organisations and implementing measures such as extra patrols and taxi marshals. These actions work to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Read more about crime stats in the North East on our blog. You can explore topics including the Top 10 Most Dangerous Areas In Newcastle.
How Our Security Services Can Help You
Security companies like Region Security Guarding provide valuable support to businesses in the area. To answer the question of Is Sunderland safe, our wide range of Sunderland security solutions offers protection from various threats.
Our services are designed to suit the unique needs of each business, whether through on-site security guards, mobile patrols, or CCTV monitoring. By providing a visible and effective security presence, Region is here to help create a safer, more secure environment for your employees, customers, and assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sunderland Becoming Safer?
Yes, recent figures suggest crime levels have fallen compared to previous years. However, some neighbourhoods still experience higher crime rates than others.
Why Do Crime Rates Vary Across Sunderland?
Population density, nightlife, transport links, and local economic conditions can all influence crime levels in different parts of the city.
Should Crime Statistics Affect Where You Live In Sunderland?
They can be a useful guide, but it’s worth considering schools, transport, amenities, and long-term community development alongside crime data.
What Crimes Have The Biggest Impact On Daily Life In Sunderland?
Crimes such as anti-social behaviour, shoplifting, and criminal damage often have the most visible effect on residents and local businesses.
How Can Businesses Improve Security In Sunderland?
Many businesses strengthen security through CCTV, access control, mobile patrols, on-site guards, and regular risk assessments tailored to their premises.
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