CC Kier Pritchard and PCC Angus Macpherson issued the following statements in response to the PM’s announcement of 20,000 new police officers…
Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “This is extremely welcome news and presents a number of opportunities here in Wiltshire.
“Our workforce mix and policing model is something that we constantly review and adapt to best meet the needs of our communities and the current threats, harm and risks facing them.
“An influx of new officers would allow us to further develop our model to become more preventative in our policing approach.
“We would look to attract the very best talent which is representative of all of the communities we serve.
“It is important to also reference the crucial role that police staff provide – our Community Policing Model could not be delivered without the right blend of officers, staff, volunteers and other supporting infrastructures.”
Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus Macpherson said: “I welcome this news and I am constantly lobbying Westminster for more funding for our Force.
“We are one of the least funded constabularies in the country but we are expected to do the same as larger, more urban services.
“Although an uplift in officer numbers is positive, it is, however, important to realise that more police officers won’t just appear miraculously overnight. These dedicated professionals have to be recruited and trained before starting the job which takes time and money.”
