£200 Million Policing Boost: What It Means for the South West

Neighbourhood Officers Set to Increase as Government Doubles Investment

The South West is set to see a significant increase in neighbourhood policing after the government doubled its funding to £200 million. The investment aims to restore the presence of officers on local streets, a move welcomed by police forces and community leaders.

More Officers, More Visibility

The funding boost, announced after an initial £100 million commitment in December, is part of the government’s plan to make communities safer. Each police force in the South West will receive a cash increase compared to the previous police settlement:

• Avon & Somerset Constabulary: Up to £438.4 million (6.6% increase)
• Devon & Cornwall Police: Up to £457.2 million (6.5% increase)
• Dorset Police: Up to £191.8 million (6.5% increase)
• Gloucestershire Police: Up to £168.2 million (6.4% increase)
• Wiltshire Police: Up to £171.8 million (6.7% increase)

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the funding as a “turning point” for policing, stating:

“By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200m, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSO’s where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres.”

Local Forces in Control

Each force will determine how to use the additional funding based on local priorities, with plans to be submitted to the government in early spring. This flexibility will be overseen by the new Police Performance Unit, ensuring that communities receive the service they expect.

The funding is part of the Safer Streets mission and the wider Plan for Change, which aims to place 13,000 additional officers, PCSOs, and special constables into dedicated neighbourhood roles across the country.

Tackling Crime in the South West

The government says neighbourhood policing has already had an impact in areas such as South Bristol, where officers have halved anti-social behaviour through community partnerships.

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody highlighted the importance of visible policing and youth support, stating:

“Throughout my recent consultation with the public, communities called for more visible policing and better support for young people.”

Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps also welcomed the investment, saying:

“This injection of investment will increase public confidence in the police and enhance feelings of safety within local communities.”

What’s Next?

The government’s upcoming Crime and Policing Bill will introduce new powers for officers, including Respect Orders aimed at reclaiming town centres and high streets. Every neighbourhood will also have a named, contactable officer responsible for community safety.

More details on further funding are expected in this autumn’s spending review.