The realities of paying for policing

Across the country, Police and Crime Commissioners are confronting significant financial pressures that are shaping the future of local policing. We are no different here in Gloucestershire.

Over the last year this has become critical. We have already made substantial savings of over £12 million, forcing cuts in police teams, capabilities and programmes.

Forces everywhere are dealing with rising costs and increasing demand, yet national funding settlements are failing to match the realities of modern policing.

We also have the unprecedented situation of having to set our budget and Council Tax levels without being told by Government the complete picture on all our income streams. This is like you being asked to pay your household bills, without knowing what your salary is for next year.

To be blunt, without access to sufficient funding, it is highly likely there will be further significant cuts to operational policing. These cuts are likely to be painful and impact public facing roles and activities. None of the options under consideration are acceptable, either to the Chief Constable or myself, but are likely to be forced upon us if our funding position doesn’t improve.

The maximum precept rise currently allowed is £15. Along with around 10 other forces in a similar underfunding position, I am compelled to be more radical. I have asked the Government for permission to increase the precept to £25 (the other forces have asked for even more) to fill the budget gap and protect our valued frontline services.

There are few other options on the table to keep the wolf from the door. I want to protect neighbourhood policing, improve our crime investigations and invest in technology upgrades to make the force more efficient and effective.

Failing to act now could create larger risks later - to officer numbers, police visibility, response times and public safety. I do not want Gloucestershire to fall behind at a time when communities and victims expect a lot from their local force.

You consistently tell me that you value police officers on your streets, to prevent and solve local crimes. Local consultations support paying more for a stronger Constabulary.

I know times are hard and seeing more of your hard-earned money leaving your account to pay for your local force is not welcome, but every pound provided will be spent wisely and give excellent value for money.

If we fail to act now, balance our budget and create more financial resilience, there will be dire consequences down the line.