If you’re thinking about moving into any big city, then it’s worth thinking about crime and how you might fall victim to it. Crime (or at least, certain varieties of crime) tends to be more prevalent when large numbers of people live close to one another. By thinking about where and when the crime might occur, you can take measures to reduce your chance of being on the wrong end of it.
Manchester is a city with a lot going for it, but there’s still a strain of criminality running through. Measuring crime in the city isn’t always straightforward, since many forces around the country record their crimes differently – and there are some kinds of crime that don’t get recorded at all. With that said, it’s better to move to the city with your eyes open: let’s look at what we do know.
What are the most common crimes in Manchester?
Anti-social behaviour accounts for around a third of all crime in Manchester. This is a crime that’s mostly perpetrated by those under the influence of alcohol in public, and as such it’s clustered around the pubs, clubs and bars in the city centre.
Violent crimes, criminal damage and burglary come just behind, with vehicle crime sitting at around 50k per year. As ever, it’s a good idea to remove all of your property from your vehicle, and to park it in a secure location. Most car thieves are opportunists; don’t present them with the opportunity.
What about domestic abuse?
One of the reasons that domestic abuse is so difficult to eradicate is that it’s difficult to measure. Victims are unlikely to come forward, perhaps because they fear reprisals, perhaps because of an emotional attachment. What’s more, the crime is perpetrated behind closed doors, where it can go unreported almost indefinitely.
With the recent Covid-19 lockdowns having forced so many people to stay at home, many domestic situations have deteriorated. This has been highlighted by Manchester’s support services recently. The authorities received nearly 2,500 high-risk referrals between 2020/21 – a 67% increase over the previous year.
The effect of crime on divorce rates
Crime, along with superior social mobility for women, have each helped to push up divorce rates in the UK. This applies in Manchester, much as it does elsewhere.
If your spouse is involved in crime, then you might have grounds to file for divorce. If you think that your safety has been jeopardised, then a separation may be still more advisable. Manchester is home to a number of legal specialists in divorce and family law. In fact, you might consult with them even if crime isn’t a factor in your decision.
