§ Mr. PicklesTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps his Department is taking to combat the fear of crime among(a) women, (b) men, (c) the elderly and (d) young people. [106818]
§ Mr. Bob AinsworthI have been asked to reply.
The latest statistics from the British Crime Survey (BCS) report that levels of fear of crime in the key categories of burglary, vehicle and violent crime have fallen compared to 2001–02. 15 per cent. of adults had high levels of worry about burglary (compared with 16 per cent.), 17 per cent. had high levels of fear about car crime (compared with 19 per cent.) and 21 per cent. had high levels of fear of violence (compared with 22 per cent.).
We are addressing misperceptions about crime by promoting the facts about crime levels and common sense precautions which individuals can take to prevent becoming a victim of crime. In order to do this, we are working with Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships (CDRPs), other Government Departments and organisations representing vulnerable groups including women, young people and the elderly.
A Fear of Crime Toolkit will be published on the Home Office Crime Reduction website in May 2003 to aid the further dissemination of this message, as well as provide best practice to all practitioners who are working towards reducing fear of crime within communities and vulnerable groups.