Angela Constance

However, the Scottish Crime and Justice Survey (SCJS) shows no change as compared with the pre-pandemic year of 2019/20, and both measures are down since 2008/09.

The latest findings also show that people feel safer in their local communities – though there has been a fall in confidence in the police across a range of measures.

The proportion of adults who experienced at least one property or violent crime increased from 10 per cent in 2021/22 to 12.1 per cent in 2023/24.

The survey of almost 5,000 people across Scotland estimates that since 2008-09: 

• the volume of property and violent crime, including incidents not reported to police, is 37 per cent lower
• violent crime is down 27 per cent
• property crime is down 41 per cent
• the proportion of people who feel safe walking alone in their local area after dark has increased to three-quarters (75 per cent) from two-thirds (66 per cent)

Those who took part in the survey were asked about their experiences of violent crime and property crime and, for the first time, their experience of fraud and computer misuse. The volume of property and violent crime combined has increased since 2021-22 but remains at similar levels to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20 and below that in 2008-09. 

Justice Secretary Angela Constance said: “This flagship national survey indicates that property crime and violent crime is more than a third (37 per cent) lower than 2008-09 and that people feel safer in their local communities. These statistics are consistent with other official figures which show that police recorded crime is at one of the lowest levels since 1974. We are making record investments in policing and across the justice system to build on this progress.  

“Crime continues to be down significantly over the long term, though the survey does highlight areas of concern and the need for continued action from governments and justice partners. While the levels of crime experienced remain similar to the pre-pandemic position in 2019-20, I am keen to understand what has contributed to the rises in crime identified since the 2021-22 survey. 

“I am also concerned about levels of fraud and computer misuse, including bank and credit card fraud, which can cause significant harm to individuals and businesses.  A range of action will continue to enhance Police Scotland’s response to fraud, to raise awareness among the public of the potential risks and to help protect individuals and organisations from cyber criminals.”