Durham’s Police and Crime Commissioner welcomes £100 million funding for local policing, aiming to enhance community safety and increase officer visibility.
Durham: The local police are getting a big boost in funding. The Government announced £100 million for neighbourhood policing today. This is part of a larger plan to add 13,000 police officers by 2029.
Joy Allen, the Police and Crime Commissioner, said the £178 million for Durham Constabulary is much needed. She has been advocating for more funds after years of cuts. The new funding is a 6.5% increase from last year.
Currently, Durham Constabulary has 1,392 officers, which is a slight increase from last year. Allen emphasized that people want to see more officers in their communities. She believes visible policing is essential for public safety.
Chief Constable Rachel Bacon is optimistic about the new funding. She thinks it will help reduce crime and tackle anti-social behavior. Community engagement is key to making a difference in the long run.
Other police forces, like Northumbria, are also seeing funding increases. However, some areas, like Lincolnshire and Essex, are disappointed with their funding levels. They still face shortfalls despite the new money.
Dame Diana Johnson, the Policing Minister, acknowledged the funding challenges. She mentioned that the Government is working to improve the situation after years of cuts. Around £1 billion in additional funding will be available from April.
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