South Yorkshire, located in north-central England, is a dynamic county that includes the boroughs of Barnsley, Doncaster, and Rotherham, as well as the vibrant city of Sheffield. Once a powerhouse of the iron, steel, and mining industries, the region has successfully transitioned to modern sectors such as light manufacturing and food production.

The county’s diverse geography is one of its most striking features, attracting both visitors and new residents. From the dramatic Pennine moorlands to the tranquil Rivers Don and Dearne, South Yorkshire offers a blend of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage. The historic marshlands of Hatfield and Humberhead, though now largely drained, remain a notable part of the area’s landscape.

If you’re considering visiting or moving to the region, understanding crime in South Yorkshire is an important step. This guide provides a detailed overview of crime and security throughout the county.

Is South Yorkshire Safe?

A common question about South Yorkshire is whether the county is safe. Like any region, certain areas experience higher crime rates than others. According to crime reports, Doncaster, Barnsley, and Rotherham are among the areas with more frequent criminal activity, making them relatively less safe. In contrast, Sheffield is considered one of the safest areas in South Yorkshire, with a lower crime rate overall. While no area is entirely free from crime, Sheffield is generally regarded as a more secure place to live compared to other parts of the county.

Trends in Crime in South Yorkshire

As of September 2024, South Yorkshire’s crime rate stands at 105 crimes per 1,000 people, a decline from 112 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023. This decrease reflects an overall reduction in crime, suggesting improvements in public safety.

However, certain crime categories have seen concerning increases. Drug-related offences, for example, have risen by 13.1% compared to the previous year, pointing to an ongoing challenge in tackling substance misuse and trafficking. Similarly, shoplifting has increased by 14.5%, indicating a rise in retail theft across the region.

On a positive note, public order crimes have dropped by 15.8%, signalling a decrease in disturbances and anti-social behaviour. Burglary rates have also fallen by 12.6%, suggesting a reduction in property crimes. While some crime types remain a concern, the overall trend in South Yorkshire points to progress in safety and reducing certain offences.

A Breakdown of the Crime in South Yorkshire

To better understand the crime landscape in South Yorkshire, it’s important to examine the different types of crimes reported over the past year. This provides valuable insight into crime trends and reveals which offences have been most prevalent in the city:

Where is the Safest Place to Live in South Yorkshire?

Sheffield is widely regarded as the safest place to live in South Yorkshire. In 2023, the city reported a crime rate of 106 crimes per 1,000 people, making it 7% lower than the regional average. This makes Sheffield a safer option compared to other areas in the county, where crime rates are generally higher.

While no area is completely free of crime, Sheffield’s relatively low crime rate highlights its reputation for being a secure place to live. The city’s ongoing efforts in crime reduction contribute to its appeal for those seeking a safer environment in South Yorkshire.

Doncaster Crime Rate

Doncaster has been identified as South Yorkshire’s most dangerous town, based on data from CrimeRate. In 2023, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 161 incidents per 1,000 residents. This pits it 46% higher than South Yorkshire’s regional average of 110 crimes per 1,000 people.

Violent crime is the most significant issue facing Doncaster. While there was a modest 4.0% decrease in violent incidents in 2023, the town still reported 10,101 cases, translating to an average rate of 62 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. In contrast, theft from the person was the least frequent crime, with 197 reported cases in 2023. Despite being uncommon, this category saw an 8% rise compared to the previous year.

To better understand crime patterns across Doncaster, we’ve created a detailed list of its most dangerous wards.

Rotherham Crime Rate

Rotherham is recognised as South Yorkshire’s safest major town, according to CrimeRate. In 2023, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 110 incidents per 1,000 residents, marginally higher than South Yorkshire’s average by 0.10%.

Despite its relative safety, violent crime poses the greatest threat to Rotherham. In 2023, violent incidents increased by 2.5%, with 6,717 cases reported. In contrast, bicycle theft was the least common crime, with only 56 incidents recorded. This is a 3.4% decline from the previous year.

For a more detailed understanding of crime trends and hotspots in Rotherham, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list using CrimeRate’s data.

Barnsley Crime Rate

Barnsley ranks as South Yorkshire’s second most dangerous major town, according to CrimeRate. In 2023, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 131 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is 19% higher than the regional average of 110 crimes per 1,000 people.

Violent crimes and sexual offences are the most prevalent in Barnsley. Although these offences decreased by 4.4% in 2023, they were still reported 9,896 times. In contrast, bicycle theft was the least common crime, with just 65 reported incidents. This is a significant 16% decline compared to the previous year.

To provide a clearer picture of crime in Barnsley, we’ve summarised data from CrimeRate, highlighting the town’s most dangerous wards.

Conclusion

South Yorkshire is a region of rich contrasts, blending a proud industrial heritage with stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban centres. While the county has made notable progress in reducing its overall crime rate, some areas, like Doncaster, Barnsley, and Rotherham, continue to face higher levels of criminal activity compared to the regional average. In contrast, Sheffield stands out as the safest area, offering a relatively low crime rate and a stronger sense of security.

Recent crime trends reveal both positive developments and ongoing challenges. Declines in public order offences, burglary, and violent crimes in certain towns signal improvements in public safety. However, the rise in drug-related offences and shoplifting highlights areas that require continued focus and community efforts.

Whether you’re planning a visit or considering a move, understanding the crime landscape in South Yorkshire can help you make informed decisions. With its efforts to enhance safety and its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, South Yorkshire remains a dynamic and evolving place to live, work, and explore.

South Yorkshire Security

In South Yorkshire, safeguarding businesses against crime increasingly relies on the expertise of professional security guards. Employing security personnel provides comprehensive protection for employees, customers, and valuable assets, while also deterring criminal activities such as theft and vandalism. This proactive approach helps reduce losses and creates a safer environment for businesses to thrive.

Partnering with security firms like Region Security Guarding and similar providers offers businesses a strong line of defence against potential threats. The visible presence of trained security professionals alone can deter opportunistic criminals, reducing the likelihood of your business being targeted.

By hiring a reliable security company, businesses can significantly strengthen their defences against South Yorkshire’s crime challenges. This investment not only enhances safety but also fosters a secure environment that supports growth and productivity.

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