Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion: “Any support from the Government to help my mission to keep communities safe is welcome, however it’s important they are honest with the public.
“Whilst there will be 12 new police officers recruited; this is a tiny uplift across a huge force area, and it does not re-balance the uncomfortable cuts being made elsewhere.
“Rather than seeking short term political gain with a smoke and mirrors announcement, the public expect the government of the day, that sets out a long-term plan which supports PCCs and Chief Constables, to deliver improvements for the communities they serve.”
| Government announcement | Reality in West Mercia |
| 31 police officers (FTE) | 12 new officers will be recruited. 19 officers will be moved from back-office roles into frontline policing and replaced by new civilian staff. |
| 20 PCSOs (FTE) | It is proposed 20 PCSOs would be recategorised into a different function. |
| 15 Special Constables (headcount) | There will be 15 additional Special Constables. |
