Thames Valley Police Commissioner seeks public opinions over policing budget
A consultation is open until early January for residents of Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire to have their say over where money goes
Last updated 5th Dec 2024
Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley, is urging residents to share their priorities for the upcoming 2025/26 policing budget.
As financial pressures mount, Mr Barber stressed the importance of public input in determining how resources should be allocated to address community needs.
The crime survey results will help shape the priorities for the policing element of council tax, which he is set to finalise in January 2025.
Financial challenges ahead
Mr Barber highlighted several financial hurdles affecting the upcoming budget.
These include shortfalls due to unfunded increases in National Insurance and police officer pay rises.
Inflation and operational costs, such as maintaining vehicles and IT systems, also add to the strain.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, he said: "We’ve received no promises of extra cash from the government.
"At the same time, we are looking at a £1.3 million shortfall from National Insurance changes and £1.8 million from pay rises. While these increases are welcome for officers on the frontline, they are not fully funded."
Mr Barber noted that Thames Valley Police has been working on a £20 million savings programme.
These internal cuts aim to streamline operations without affecting frontline services, but further reductions would be difficult.
Prioritising frontline policing
Despite financial pressures, Mr Barber remains committed to prioritising neighbourhood policing and crime prevention.
He said: "I want to ensure we’re doing everything we can to prevent crime, catch criminals, increase charge rates, and keep crime falling."
Neighbourhood policing continues to be a key concern for residents, between shoplifting, anti-social behaviour, and e-scooters, which frequently come up in public feedback.
"The solution to many of these problems is about strengthening our policing teams," he said. "It’s about having a consistent presence in our towns and communities, with officers who get to know the areas they serve."
Public safety on the roads
Road safety is another top priority for Thames Valley residents, according to Mr Barber: "We always get lots of concern about road safety and speeding.
"Our road safety strategy has already led to increased enforcement around speeding, antisocial driving, and mobile phone use behind the wheel. We want to make sure this work continues."
Mr Barber is also advocating for better funding from central government to ease the burden on local taxpayers.
The Government has been approached for a comment.
Public consultation open
Residents can share their views on policing priorities by completing the ongoing crime survey available on the PCC website.
Feedback received by 12 PM on Friday, January 3, 2025, will be included in the budget-setting process.