How many victims are there really?

According to the British Crime Survey (for England and Wales):

• In 2007/08, the number of adults who were affected by crimes was 10.1 million, down from 11.3 million the previous year.
• The risk of becoming a victim of crime has fallen from 40% at its peak in 1995 to 22% in 2007/08.
• In 2007/08 there was a 3.2% chance of being a victim of violent crime.
• There were 280,000 burglaries in England and Wales in 2007/08.

So should I stay locked away in my house?

No, that would be far too drastic. Our fear of crime often exceeds the real risk: we live in a world where we are constantly bombarded by bad news and over-hyped headlines about soaring street crime levels, gun-toting kids running rife through the UK, and shootouts apparently happening on 'every' street corner.

The reality is a little different. Our fear has been pushed to new heights recently, particularly with media coverage suggesting the world outside is a horrid place. This is not a reason to panic or hide away from the big, bad world. This doesn't mean you should go to the other extreme and start leaving you doors unlocked and walking down dark alleys alone; just that a little perspective is needed here, people.

The statistics above show us that yes, crime happens, but often with a little common sense in keeping yourself and your possessions safe you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

Updated: 03/04/2009