Exploring Bristol Crime: What You Need to Know

• The total number of crimes reported in Bristol for 2023/24 reached 57,976, which was a 7% increase compared to the previous year’s figure.
• Violence and sexual offences were the most common crimes in Bristol in 2023, with 19,593 incidents.
• The city’s least common crime in 2023 was possession of weapons. There were 403 incidents.

Sources: CrimeRate and JSNA Health and Wellbeing Profile 2024/25

So, what does the data show us when we ask is Bristol safe? Keep reading to find out more…

What Is The Crime Rate In Bristol?

Bristol had an overall crime rate of 118 times per 1,000 people during 2023, according to Crimerate.

Violence and sexual offences were the most reported crimes in Bristol during 2023, with over 19,593 recorded incidents. This equates to a rate of 43 crimes per 1,000 residents. Compared to 2022, violent crimes saw a 2.4% increase,

Possession of weapons was the least common crime in Bristol in 2023 at 403 recorded offences. However, this represents a significant increase of 24% compared to the previous year.

What Are the Crime Hotspots Of Bristol?

In 2023/24, Bristol experienced variation across different wards.

Data collected from Bristol City Council’s Joint Strategic Needs Assessment found that the city’s overall crime rate rose to 121.0 offences per 1,000 residents, up from 113.2 the previous year. This increase highlights the evolving safety challenges across Bristol. Here’s a closer look at the data:

Crime Rates by Ward

Crime rates varied widely depending on the area:

• The lowest crime rates were recorded in:
  • St. George Troopers Hill: 42 crimes per 1,000 residents.
  • Redland: 46 crimes per 1,000 residents.
• The highest crime rates were observed in:
  • Hotwells & Harbourside: 326 crimes per 1,000 residents.
  • Central: 422 crimes per 1,000 residents.

Total Crimes by Ward:

When considering the total number of crimes:

• Areas with the lowest incidents included:
  • St. George Troopers Hill: 270 total crimes.
  • Redland: 618 total crimes.
• Areas with the highest incidents included:
  • Lawrence Hill: 4,301 total crimes.
  • Central: 8,673 total crimes.

Changes over the year varied significantly across wards:

Decreases in crime

Brislington East saw an 8.1% reduction, while Horfield experienced a 7.9% drop.

Increases in crime

Bishopston and Ashley Down recorded the largest rise at 47.9%, followed by Lockleaze with a 36.4% increase.

These statistics underscore the diverse safety challenges faced by Bristol’s communities. While some areas have seen reductions in crime, others are grappling with sharp increases. This indicates the need for targeted interventions and continued monitoring.

Is Bristol Safe?

When discussing safety, the city ranks favorably compared to other major urban centers. In fact, Bristol is the third safest major city in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, according to CrimeRate. This reflects its relatively low crime levels in comparison to similar locations.

Overall, Bristol’s crime rate places it among the safer cities in the UK, offering residents and visitors a reassuring sense of security.

Is Bristol Safe At Night?

Nighttime often sees a rise in criminal activity, as the cover of darkness can encourage illegal behavior. Despite this, Bristol takes significant measures to ensure the safety of its nightlife.

For example, the city has proudly maintained Purple Flag accreditation for 13 consecutive years. This is awarded to cities that demonstrate excellence in managing their evening and night-time economies. It reflects Bristol’s dedication to offering a vibrant yet secure environment for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The city has also launched initiatives such as the Women’s Safety Charter. This promotes a zero-tolerance approach to harassment and equips businesses with strategies to build safer nighttime space.

These kinds of initiatives highlight Bristol’s commitment to a safe and inclusive night-time environment, making it a model for nightlife management.

Is Bristol Rough?

Bristol, like any city in the UK, has areas that vary in safety and reputation. Some neighborhoods face challenges with crime. The city center, in particular, has reported higher crime rates compared to other parts of Bristol.

For example, recent data from ADT highlights that the central area of Bristol averages 204 crimes per week, including 7 weekly burglaries, which is the highest in the city. This is likely due to its busy nightlife and dense population.

However, it’s important to note that many areas in Bristol remain safe, family-friendly, and welcoming. The city’s ongoing initiatives aim to address these issues and enhance safety across all neighborhoods. Understanding the specific dynamics of each area can help residents and visitors navigate the city with confidence.

Staying Safe in Bristol: Practical Tips

Whether you’re living in in the city visiting, or running a business, there are many ways to increase safety levels and protect yourself against potential Bristol crime:

For Residents:

• Be Aware of Valuables: Keep personal items out of sight in your home or car to reduce the likelihood of theft.
• Secure Your Home: Use sturdy locks, install motion-sensor lights, and ensure doors and windows are secure.
• Use Technology: Home security systems like cameras or alarms are effective in break-ins.
• Engage with the Community: Joining neighborhood watch schemes or local online safety groups can help you stay informed about security concerns nearby.

For Businesses:

• Boost Premises Security: Reinforce entrances, use security shutters, and consider adding alarms and surveillance cameras.
• Opt for Professional Security Services: Mobile patrols, on-site guards, and alarm response services are excellent options, especially in areas like Central Bristol with higher crime activity.
• Prioritise Staff Training: Equip your employees with the skills to handle emergencies or report suspicious behavior effectively.

By taking these precautions, both residents and visitors can enjoy Bristol’s unique offerings with greater confidence. Plus, businesses can ensure a safer environment for staff and customers.

Is Bristol Safe? : A Conclusion

Overall, the city has proven to be one of the safest in the UK, with various measures in place to reduce crime and ensure public safety.

From the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for nightlife safety to community initiatives like the Women’s Safety Charter, Bristol has made significant strides in addressing crime and promoting a secure environment for both residents and visitors.

By taking simple precautions and staying informed, individuals and businesses can contribute to maintaining Bristol’s reputation as a generally safe city.

Interested in learning more about crime and safety in the South West? Take a look at more of our articles such as how safe is Bournemouth.

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