Official figures for 2021-22 show that people across Scotland now feel safer in their communities, with the proportion of those experiencing the types of crime covered in the survey at an historic low.
The latest Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (SCJS) of 5,600 adults across Scotland estimates that since 2008-09:
• Crime, including incidents not reported to police, has fallen by 53%
• The proportion of people experiencing crime has fallen from one in five (20.4%) to around one in 10 (10.0%)
• Violent crime has decreased by nearly three-fifths (58%)
• Property crime is down by 51%
• The proportion of people who feel safe walking home alone after dark has increased from two thirds (66%) to more than three-quarters (76%).
Those who took part in the survey were asked about their experiences of violent and property crime, including personal theft, household theft and vandalism.
They were also asked about their perceptions of crime, policing and the justice system.
Most adults expressed confidence in the effectiveness of their local police, including their ability to handle incidents and solve crimes.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“This flagship national survey shows that crime has fallen by more than half since the SNP came to office and that people feel safer in their local communities.
“While most people will not experience crime, there can be a significant impact for those who do, particularly in cases of violent and sexual offences. And so we must continue to work to reduce crime levels even further.
“These figures are consistent with other official sources which show that recorded crime is at one of the lowest levels since 1974. This is testimony to the efforts of Police Scotland and the SNP Government’s investment in the justice system.
“Our police officers work hard to keep us all safe – and their effectiveness is clear. As police operations adapt to meet changes in how crime is committed – for example, with increasing numbers of offences being committed online – we will continue to support Police Scotland to help keep crime down and communities safe.
“That is why we will invest £1,550 million in policing in 2024-25, increasing the Scottish Police Authority resource budget by 5.6% - an additional £75.7 million, a real terms increase for Police Scotland. Providing the resources needed to support frontline service delivery.
“We are also increasing the police core capital funding by 12.4% to £64.5 million, for investment in the police estate, technology and fleet. This investment at a time of Westminster imposed cuts to our capital budget shows the high priority policing has for the SNP Government.”
