Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans for 3,000 new neighbourhood police officers to be deployed by the start of next year, with a significant investment of £200 million to bolster neighbourhood policing.
The initiative will also introduce a “named, contactable” officer for every area, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing community policing. Counties such as Somerset, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire are set to benefit from an increase in officer numbers, encompassing both police officers and police community support officers (PCSOs).
During an event in Cambridgeshire, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of empowering the police force with the necessary tools to fulfill their duties. He pledged to deliver 13,000 new neighbourhood officers by 2029, with the first step being the deployment of 3,000 officers by the start of next year. These officers will be actively patrolling neighborhoods and addressing community needs, promising increased visibility and service delivery.
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As part of the initiative, every neighborhood will have a designated police officer from this July, ensuring accessible and responsive law enforcement. The plan also includes guaranteed police patrols in town centers and hotspots, particularly during peak times. Furthermore, residents and businesses will have various channels to raise concerns and engage with their local policing teams.
The commitment to combat the “culture of crime” and revitalize neighborhood policing was emphasized by Sir Keir, who stressed the impact of anti-social behavior on individuals and communities. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reiterated the government’s determination to restore and strengthen neighborhood policing, emphasizing the importance of officers and PCSOs who are familiar with local communities.
Kemi Badenoch questioned the accuracy of Labour’s figures in their effort to bolster the number of neighbourhood police officers, raising concerns about the financial implications. In response, she reaffirmed the Conservative government’s commitment to law and order, highlighting the recruitment of 20,000 new police officers since 2019.
The government’s new Police Standards and Performance Improvement Unit aims to ensure consistent and accurate measurement of police performance, aiming to bridge the gap between the best and worst performing forces. Additionally, the Crime and Policing Bill will grant new powers to the police, enabling them to tackle crimes more effectively, such as seizing vehicles and pursuing phone thieves through advanced measures.