1. Impact of Crime on Local Communities

2. We are going to learn about the ways in which crime is detrimental to local communities.

3. How does crime impact on society as a whole?
Encourages people to take expensive security measures (e.g. alarms, cctv, taking taxis and cars rather than public transport)
Discourages socialising – fear of ‘going out’
Fear of using public spaces
Not moving to / going into certain areas “crime black spots”.
Financial burden on society.

4. Impact on Local Communities
Crime is mainly committed in urban areas (towns and cities)
High levels of crime may damage community spirit and result in less neighbourliness. People may simply want to ‘keep themselves to themselves’ for fear of harassment. Possible link to gang culture here – the “Young Team”
High crime levels can contribute to ‘environmental poverty’ – vandalism, graffiti, etc.
Drug dealing and other ‘serious’ crimes severely effect certain areas.
Once an area with a high level of crime is labelled as a ‘bad area’, it can become stereotyped. People may leave the area (depopulation) which results in derelict housing adding to the areas problems. House prices will fall.

5. Case Study: Fergulsie Park, Paisley

6. In 2006, the Scottish Government named it as one of Scotland's most deprived communities. Ferguslie Park has improved over recent years but currently is still one of the most deprived areas in Scotland, and indeed Britain. The area mainly contains social housing with many tenants renting from the local council.

7. More recently, Renfrewshire council has tried to regenerate Fergulsie – they have invested millions on new council housing. 'Neighbourhood wardens' now patrol the streets to give a visible presence to try to deter crime. Graffiti Squads also aim to remove graffiti from council property within 24 hours to try to reduce the urban decay.
However the drug problem in the area still exists and is rife. Many addicts live in Fergulsie and drug dealing is a major problem. Anti-social behaviour also exists, although to a lesser extent than in recent years. Sports facilities and community events have helped youngsters stay out of trouble (to a degree).

8. Risk of crime in various areas of Scotland
Risk of crime in various areas of Scotland. Higher % of adults who were victims of crime in 15% most deprived!