Perceived lack of care or concern from criminal justice
agencies
The appearance of police not responding to a 999 call,
failed prosecutions or victims of crime not knowing who they
can turn to for support, can create a sense that nobody
really cares about seeing justice done, catching criminals
and protecting the innocent. This can be one of the most
powerful factors levering the fear of crime.
Other issues may include a lack of visible policing,
which is of particular concern and a lack of confidence in
support for victims and witnesses.
Physical isolation
Physical isolation can result from having poor transport
links, few passers-by, poor lighting, being in a secluded
spot, living in a neglected environment where graffiti and
rubbish are rife, or having insufficient or poor public
facilities. It can also occur when individuals have limited
financial resources and can’t afford to ‘get away from
it all’. A related issue is the fear of being out at night
and travelling at night, when even otherwise friendly and
safe neighbourhoods and routes can take on a more sinister
and frightening aspect. There may also be a feeling of
isolation due to lack of mobility and accessibility of the
external (outside) environment.
Social isolation
A feeling of social isolation can result from
intimidation, homelessness, ill health, or having no or
little support from family and friends.
CASE STUDY:
Health-improvement programme in Salford
For further information please contact Geoff Kirkman at
Trafford CDRP geoff.kirkman@trafford.gov.uk
Please refer back to the Fear of Crime toolkit for more
information and ideas on how to tackle these sorts of
issues.
