Wiltshire remains one of the safest places in the country despite rise in recorded crime

Wiltshire continues to have one of the lowest crime rates in England and remains the safest force area in the South West, according to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) crime rate data published last week.

The figures show that Wiltshire recorded 56.09 crimes per 1,000 population for the year ending March 2026, significantly below both the national average for England of 83.45 and the South West average of 73.49 for the same time period. 

While the data shows an overall increase in recorded crime compared to the previous year, Wiltshire's crime rate remains substantially lower than both the regional and national averages, reflecting the continued efforts of officers, staff, volunteers and partner agencies working to keep communities safe. 

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: "These figures reinforce Wiltshire's position as the safest force area in the South West, with a significant lead over neighbouring areas. 

"Although no increase in crime can be ignored, the data reflects the strength of policing in Wiltshire and the benefits of a service that works closely with and is accountable to local communities.

"At a time when there is increasing debate about the future shape of policing and whether larger organisations automatically deliver better outcomes, these statistics provide an important reminder that bigger isn't always better.

"Wiltshire Police officers and staff know the communities they serve. They understand the issues affecting our towns, villages and rural areas, and that local knowledge is one of the most effective tools we have when it comes to crime prevention and keeping people safe. 

"Strong relationships between neighbourhood policing teams, local authorities, community groups and residents enable us to identify problems early and respond effectively. That connection is much harder to maintain when decision-making is taken further away from the communities affected." 

The latest crime figures follow further positive recognition for Wiltshire Police, which this month was placed in Tier 1 of HMICFRS's new Policing Performance System. 

Inspectors highlighted improved performance and evidence that the force is moving in the right direction following its recent PEEL inspection, recognising the progress made in recent years and the efforts of officers, staff and volunteers to deliver a better service to the public. 

Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: "Last week, we were pleased to share that His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has placed Wiltshire Police in Level 1 – the highest category within its new Policing Performance System. This is a significant endorsement of the effort and dedication of all those who work, volunteer and support Wiltshire Police to ensure that we are continuing to improve and provide a better service to the communities of Wiltshire.

"The latest Office for National Statistics figures once again show Wiltshire as the safest county in the South West. While recorded crime levels are rising, it is important to recognise that this reflects not only changes in offending patterns but also growing public confidence in coming forward and reporting crimes. We want victims and witnesses to feel supported and reassured that when they report crime. They will be listened to and action will be taken.

"The increase seen across a range of offence types is, in part, the result of continued improvements in the way crime is identified, recorded and reported. This suggests a stronger, more transparent approach to crime recording rather than a single underlying increase in criminality.

"We remain committed to working closely with our communities and partner organisations, including the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, to tackle crime, prevent harm and address the root causes of offending. Together, we will continue our efforts to keep Wiltshire one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit."

You can read the full ONS report here.