The PCC has secured support from the Police and Crime Panel for the latest investments into West Mercia Police to deliver improvements for communities.
Frequently asked questions
West Mercia Police, like most police forces across the country, is facing a range of financial challenges as a result of inflation and other financial pressures that the central government fund isn’t meeting.
55% of the overall funding for the force comes from the government, with 45% made up of council tax.
The decision to increase the council tax precept is not one the Police and Crime Commissioner has wanted to make, but he has been left with no other option.
A comprehensive budget process has identified where savings can be made without compromising keeping communities safe and preventing crime.
The increase amounts to, on average, an extra £14 per year for a Band D property.
West Mercia Police will need to make unavoidable service reductions and changes in order to continue focusing on fighting crime and responding to emergencies.
However, this funding will ensure the record numbers of police officers are maintained, a new policing model can be implemented to deliver greater efficiencies and value for money, and the force has long-term financial stability.
The PCC and Chief Constable are focused on delivering the best service for the communities of West Mercia with the resources available, maximising them where able. Where police officers are being placed into police staff roles, this is being done to add value because of their warranted powers and knowledge.
The Chief Constable is working with the PCC to deliver on his Safer Communities Plan. At the heart of the plan is a focus on your priorities, cutting crime, supporting victims and witnesses, policing with the community and maximising resources and value for money.
Over the coming year, the PCC will continue to support and challenge the Chief Constable on progress through regular formal Assurance and Accountability sessions.
8% of the overall West Mercia Police budget will be spent by the PCC’s office. This will go towards the police estate, a range of victim services, and governance of the PCC.
This compares to –
38% on 999/101, emergency response and community policing
24% on investigating crime and bringing offenders to justice
21% on support to policing
9% on specialist policing teams
If you would like more information on the budget, please take a look below.
