Reducing demand on policing, in order to deliver a better service to the public was one of the key topics raised when the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner met with the Chief Constable.
As part of the PCC’s regular holding to account meetings, the force’s approach was discussed. This includes preventative methods such as the We Don’t Buy Crime Scheme and work with partners in high demand areas, such as mental health.
The use of funding to make local communities safer was also discussed. To date £300,000 has been spent to fund over 100 projects through the PCC’s Local Policing and Community Ambassadors Fund. The investment covers a range of local projects from youth inclusion and diversionary projects through to improved CCTV and preventative schemes. The investment tackles a range of issues and crime types including drug offences, cyber crime, acquisitive crime, knife crime and hate crime.
Commissioner John Campion said “I am committed to ensuring West Mercia Police are delivering the best possible service, in order to make our communities safer. It’s important that the force manage demand and focus on priorities. Prevention is a key part of this, and I’m pleased to see a range of innovative schemes, which help people to keep themselves safe. The localised investments I have made in communities, are also helping to make them safer. I maintain my commitment to hold the Chief Constable to account to ensure we continue to deliver this aim.”
Issued: Thursday 17th October 2019