Funding to boost neighbourhood policing

The government has announced £200 million to transform neighbourhood policing.

Forces across England and Wales will now receive increased resources to begin their recruitment to boost neighbourhood policing teams.

The funding is double December's provisional £100 million commitment and is aimed at strengthening local crime prevention and community safety.

Within its plan for change, one of the government's key pledges is that every neighbourhood will have a named, contactable officer.

Extra officers will be part of the community and focused on tackling crimes like antisocial behaviour, theft and knife crime.

Each force is to set out their plans to the government by early spring, showing how they will use the extra funding.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: "This major investment marks a turning point for policing in this country. By doubling extra neighbourhood funding to £200 million, we are giving forces across the country what they need to put more officers and PCSOs [police community support officers] where they’re needed most – on our streets and in our town centres.

"Every neighbourhood deserves dedicated officers who know their patch, understand residents’ concerns and can tackle problems before they escalate. This investment, alongside new powers we are bringing into law, will help prevent crime and protect our communities, which is at the heart of our Plan for Change.

"Restoring local policing will not happen overnight, but this funding boost will get more officers into our town centres and rural areas."

Neighbourhood Watch CEO John Hayward-Cripps said: "Neighbourhood Watch is delighted that the government is further increasing the investment in neighbourhood policing.

"With the increased demands on the police, and public confidence at a low point, a focus on neighbourhood policing is key to the police being visible, approachable, and engaging proactively with the public.

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