Dorset Police to receive £481,000 to support Covid-19 response

Dorset's Police and Crime Commissioner says the funding's welcome but a small amount compared to the costs

The Police Federation is calling for more funding towards recruitment across the country
Author: Maria GreenwoodPublished 12th Feb 2021

Dorset's Police and Crime Commissioner says he's pleased the Government's recognised the financial pressures of policing the pandemic.

Police forces in England and Wales will be reimbursed to support increased enforcement of coronavirus rules.

Dorset Police is set to receive more than £481,000.

The money announced by the Home Secretary today is to help pay for policing the pandemic - including officer's overtime and making police stations Covid-secure.

Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset:

"I am pleased that Government has recognised the ongoing financial pressures of policing the pandemic. The amount received by Dorset is small compared to these costs but is welcome nonetheless. I will be having a discussion with the Chief Constable as early as possible about how best to allocate these funds.

"As my time in office draws near, I reflect on my continued disappointment that the outdated and unfair method for allocating police funding has still not yet been reviewed, despite repeated assurances from Government.

"Nationally, around two thirds of police funding comes from central grants, with local taxpayers contributing around one third. Here in Dorset, the balance is around 50/50, meaning that Dorset residents continue to be short-changed. I urge my successor to continue to press Government for a much needed reform to this out of date funding method."

From Monday, some forces will also assist with further increased presence and enforcement of regulations at airports and ports, to ensure travellers are complying with the new border health measures.

Additional officers will be deployed at airports and ports to support the enforcement of these regulations, including checking the reason for passengers' journeys and helping ensure compliance of arrivals from red-list countries who will be part of the mandatory quarantine scheme announced by the government this week.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said:

"Our police officers have worked tirelessly to keep the country's streets safe while enforcing the coronavirus regulations to protect the NHS and save lives.

"The public also have a vital part to play - this includes not travelling unless essential, which is why police will also be stepping up checks at airports.

"We are committed to supporting them as they continue this crucial activity and are providing specific funding for coronavirus costs."

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